Thiazolidine carboxamide derivatives as modulators of the prostaglandin f receptor

ABSTRACT

The present invention is related to thiazolidine carboxamide derivatives of formula (II) for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of preterm labor, premature birth, dysmenorrhea and for stopping labor prior to cesarean delivery.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This present invention is related to thiazolidine carboxamidederivatives of formula (II) for the treatment and/or prophylaxis ofpreterm labor, premature birth, dysmenorrhea and for stopping laborprior to cesarean delivery. Specifically, the present invention isrelated to substituted thiazolidine carboxamide derivatives for themodulation, notably the inhibition of the activity or function of theprostaglandin receptors, particularly of the prostaglandin F_(2α)receptor. Also, the present invention is related to novel thiazolidinecarboxamide derivatives of formulae (I) and (Ia).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the field of obstetrics, one of the most important problems is themanagement of preterm labor and premature birth as they represent amajor cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality.

In recent years, strong evidence has accumulated indicating that thehormone oxytocin plays a major role in initiating labor in mammals,notably in humans. Thereby, it is assumed that oxytocin exerts saideffect in a direct as well as an indirect way, by contracting theuterine myometrium and by enhancing the synthesis and release ofcontractile prostaglandins from the uterine endometrium/decidua. Theseprostaglandins may furthermore play a role in the cervical ripeningprocess.

In parturition, the high circulating concentrations of progesteroneinduce uterine quiescence while the uterus acquires contractile ability.Shortly before term, plasma progesterone concentrations fall, oxytocinreceptor expression in the uterus increases markedly, and uterinecontractile activity increases. At term, the contractions rise to acrescendo, resulting in delivery as a result of two interacting positivefeedback loop. The first is a local uterine loop: within the uterusitself, prostaglandins and other uterotonic factors are produced andreleased in response to uterine contractions. The second loop involvesthe hypothalamus: in response to uterine contractions and vaginal andcervical distension, magnocellular oxytocin neurons in the hypothalamusincrease their activity resulting in the release of oxytocin from theiraxon terminals in the posterior pituitary; the released oxytocin actsupon the uterus both to stimulate the further production ofprostaglandins and to contribute further to the contractions of theuterus. (Journal of Endocrinology 157, p. 343-359 (1998) by J. A Russelland al.).

For the treatment of preterm labor, several approaches have beenconsidered such as the use of magnesium sulfate, ethanol or therapeuticagents acting as β₂ adrenergic agonists or oxytocin antagonists:

-   -   With the use of magnesium sulfate, it has been observed that        plasma concentrations above the therapeutic range of 4 to 8        mg/dL can cause inhibition of cardiac conduction and        neuromuscular transmission, respiratory depression and cardiac        arrest, thus making this agent unsuitable notably when the renal        function is impaired.    -   Ethanol is effective in preventing premature labor, but it does        not produce a corresponding reduction in the incidence of fetal        respiratory distress. Also, ethanol is assumed to have a        negative impact on the fetus.    -   The β₂-adrenergic receptor generally causes an inhibitory action        within the cells wherein it is expressed (muscles, heart, uterus        etc). β₂-adrenergic agonists are used to activate said        inhibitory action of the receptor. Hence, β₂-adrenergic agonists        are sympathomimetics which—among others—inhibit uterine        contractility. Known β₂-adrenergic agonists for the treatment of        preterm labor are Ritodrine, Terbutaline and Albuterol.    -   Oxytocin antagonists: Oxytocin (OT) is a peptide hormone causing        the contraction of the uterus of mammals during labor. Oxytocin        (OT) receptors increase dramatically during the course of        pregnancy. The concentration of OT receptors has been shown to        correlate with spontaneous uterine activity. In the last few        years, a number of papers have suggested that the hormone        oxytocin may be a physiological initiator of labor in several        mammalian species including humans. Furthermore, oxytocin is        believed to exert this effect in two different parts, either by        directly contracting the uterine myometrium and by enhancing the        synthesis and release of contractile prostaglandins from the        uterine endometrium/decidua. Therefore, by blocking oxytocin,        the direct (contractile) and indirect (enhanced prostaglandin        synthesis) effects of oxytocin on the uterus may be achieved.

Prostaglandins (PGs), more particularly prostaglandin F_(2α) (PGF_(2α)),play a key role in the normal physiology of several tissues includingovary, oviduct, uterus, testis, lung and possibly eye and heart and isimplicated in reproductive functions such as ovulation, luteolysis andparturition. It is well known that parturition is initiated whenprostaglandin F_(2α) interacts with FP (Prostaglandin F receptor) inovarian luteal cells of the pregnant mice to induce luteolysis. (Sciencevol. 277 p. 681-687 (1997) by Yuhihiko Sugimoto et al). Actions ofPGF_(2α) are mediated by the PGF receptor (FP), which is aheterotrimeric guanosine triphosphate—binding protein (Gprotein)—coupled rhodopsin type receptor specific to this PG (Sciencevol. 277, p. 681-83 (1998) by Yuhihiko Sugimoto et al.). Theseprostaglandins belong to a group of eicosanoids that are produced by theenzymatic activity of cyclooxygenase. Together with the thromboxanes,prostaglandins constitute the prostanoid subgroup of the eicosanoids.Prostaglandins (PGs) mediate various physiological processes such asfever generation and inflammation. Aspirin and related drugs act throughinhibition of PG biosynthesis.

PGF_(2α) is synthesized, to varying degrees, by almost every tissue inthe body and is a stimulant of several different types of physiologicalfunctions including granulose lutein cell death, myometrial smoothmuscle contraction, Leydig cell testosterone synthesis regulation,regulation of oviductal cilia beating, bronchoconstriction, and bonemetabolism. They are synthesized in fetal and maternal membranes and actto ripen the cervix and contract the myometrium. PGF_(2α) is a majorprostaglandin for enhancing uterine contractility.

Specific prostaglandin receptors (EP₁, EP₂, EP₄ and FP) are expressed inthe human myometrium. Activation of EP₂ and EP₄ receptors results insmooth muscle relaxation whereas activation of the PGF_(2α)-selectivereceptor (FP receptor) results in contraction. Indeed, the prostaglandinF_(2α) receptor acts via a G protein-coupled receptor, coupled toactivation of phospholipase C and increases in IP₃ that release Ca²⁺from intracellular stores. The increases in intracellular calcium thatensue lead to increased contraction of smooth muscle via activation ofmyosin light chain kinase. Also, it is known that mice lacking the FPreceptor have normal fertility but no labor at term. However healthypups were delivered by cesarean cut. One of the most important roles ofPGF_(2α) is in reproductive biology as a luteolytic agent. In thenon-pregnant state, at the end of the luteal phase, increased pulsatileserum levels of PGF_(2α) (of uterine origin) cause apoptotic cell deathof the granulosam lutein cells (Res. Reprod. 16:1-2 (1984) byMcCracken).

There is recent evidence for up-regulation of the contractile FPreceptor with the onset and during progression of labor. Also, recentreports indicate that oxytocin induces production of PGs in humanmyometrial cells via upregulation of COX-2. Such a mechanism may explainthe sustained release of PGs in uterine tissue, promoting labor.Therefore, there is strong evidence that interfering with theprostaglandin pathway by blocking selectively the contractile FPreceptor will delay the progression of labor. A compound able to blockthe interaction between PGF_(2α) and its receptor, i.e. aPGF_(2α)-receptor antagonist, is therefore assumed to be moreefficacious for treating preterm labor than current regimens.

Because of the involvement of PGF_(2α) in birth initiation, severalapproaches have already been performed to test new PGF_(2α) inhibitors.Indomethacin is a well known prostaglandin inhibitor and has alreadybeen tested to study the possible mode of action of prostaglandins(Prostaglandins, 12(6) p. 1053-9 (1976) by Chatterjee A.). In J. Reprod.Fertil., 116(1), p. 103-111 (1999) Williams B. J. et al observed thatflunixin meglumine disrupted the normal 13,14-dihydro-15-ketoprostaglandin F_(2α) profile but did not abolish prostaglandin synthesiscompletely or delay the onset of labor in treated animals. Mattos R. etal (Rev. Reprod., 5(1), p. 38-45 (2000) use polyunsaturated fatty acidssuch as linoleic, linolenic, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acidswhich may inhibit prostaglandin F_(2α).

Recently, a phenol derivative known as p38 inhibitor(4-[5-(4-fluorophenyl)-4-(4-pyridyl)-imidazol-2-yl]phenol) has beentested and it has been observed that said compound inhibited bothprostaglandin F_(2α) production and COX-2 expression induced bystimulation with IL-1β (Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 288(5), p.1155-1161 (2001) by Chuo-ku Chiba).

Tsumura & Co proposed prostaglandin F_(2α) inhibitor active to relax thesmooth muscle of uterine and effective for the remedy of abdominal paincaused by abortion, premature labor and dysfunction, by using aphthalide derivative as an active component (JP-01050818). In theirpatent (U.S. Pat. No. 6,271,201), Board of Regents, the University ofTexas System discloses a method for regulating placental cell productionof thromboxane and PGF_(2α) comprising treating placenta cells with apharmacologically effective amount of insulin-like growth factor Isufficient to inhibit thromboxane and prostaglandin F_(2α) productionwithout affecting prostacyclin or prostaglandin E₂ production.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the use of thiazolidine carboxamidederivatives of formula (II),

as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, for thepreparation of pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment and/orprevention of preterm labor, premature birth, dysmenorrhea, and forstopping labor prior to cesarean delivery. Compounds of this inventionare inhibitors of prostaglandin receptors, particularly of theprostaglandin F_(2α) receptor (FP).

Also, the present invention relates to novel thiazolidine carboxamidederivatives of formula (I), wherein G′ is an aryl, heteroaryl orcycloalkyl or a heterocycloalkyl moiety.

In particular the present invention relates to novel thiazolidinecarboxamide derivatives of formula (Ia):

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It has now been found that compounds of the present invention aremodulators of the Prostaglandin receptor, in particular of theProstaglandin F_(2α) receptor (FP) function. When the ProstaglandinF_(2α) receptor (FP) is bound by the compounds of the present invention,PGF_(2α) is antagonized by being blocked from its receptor and thusbeing unable to exert its biological or pharmacological effects. Thecompounds of the present invention are therefore useful in the treatmentand prevention of preterm labor, premature birth and for stopping laborprior to cesarean delivery.

The compounds of the present invention are also useful in the treatmentof dysmenorrhea which may be defined as a cyclic pain associated withmenses during ovulatory cycles. The pain is thought to result fromuterine contractions and ischemia, probably mediated by the effect ofprostaglandins produced in the secretory endometrium. By blocking boththe effects of prostaglandin F_(2α) on the uterus, a FP antagonist ismore efficacious for treating dysmenorrhea than current regimens.

In particular, compounds of the present invention are useful in thetreatment and prevention of prostaglandin related disorders of mammalsand especially humans. It is a purpose of this invention to provide amethod of antagonizing the functions of prostaglandins, particularlyprostaglandin F_(2α), in disease states in mammals. It is anotherpurpose of this invention to develop a method of preventing or treatingprostaglandin F_(2α) related disorders by antagonizing the binding ofsaid prostaglandin to its receptor.

The following paragraphs provide definitions of the various chemicalmoieties that make up the compounds according to the invention and areintended to apply uniformly through-out the specification and claimsunless an otherwise expressly set out definition provides a broaderdefinition.

“C₁-C₆-alkyl” refers to monovalent alkyl groups having 1 to 6 carbonatoms. This term is exemplified by groups such as methyl, ethyl,n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, n-hexyl and thelike.

“Aryl” refers to an unsaturated aromatic carbocyclic group of from 6 to14 carbon atoms having a single ring (e.g., phenyl) or multiplecondensed rings (e.g., naphthyl). Preferred aryl include phenyl,naphthyl, phenanthrenyl and the like.

“C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” refers to C₁-C₆-alkyl groups having an arylsubstituent, including benzyl, phenethyl and the like.

“Heteroaryl” refers to a monocyclic heteroaromatic, or a bicyclic or atricyclic fused-ring heteroaromatic group. Particular examples ofheteroaromatic groups include optionally substituted pyridyl, pyrrolyl,furyl, thienyl, imidazolyl, oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, thiazolyl,isothiazolyl, pyrazolyl, 1,2,3-triazolyl, 1,2,4-triazolyl,1,2,3-oxadiazolyl, 1,2,4-oxadiazolyl, 1,2,5-oxadiazolyl,1,3,4-oxadiazolyl, 1,3,4-triazinyl, 1,2,3-triazinyl, benzofuryl,[2,3-dihydro]benzofuryl, isobenzofuryl, benzothienyl, benzotriazolyl,isobenzothienyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, 3H-indolyl, benzimidazolyl,imidazo[1,2-a]pyridyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoxazolyl, quinolizinyl,quinazolinyl, pthalazinyl, quinoxalinyl, cinnolinyl, napthyridinyl,pyrido[3,4-b]pyridyl, pyrido[3,2-b]pyridyl, pyrido[4,3-b]pyridyl,quinolyl, isoquinolyl, tetrazolyl, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinolyl,5,6,7,8-tetrahydroisoquinolyl, purinyl, pteridinyl, carbazolyl,xanthenyl or benzoquinolyl.

“C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl” refers to C₁-C₆-alkyl groups having aheteroaryl substituent, including 2-furylmethyl, 2-thienylmethyl,2-(1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl and the like.

“C₂-C₆-alkenyl” refers to alkenyl groups preferably having from 2 to 6carbon atoms and having at least 1 or 2 sites of alkenyl unsaturation.Preferable alkenyl groups include ethenyl (—CH═CH₂), n-2-propenyl(allyl, —CH₂CH═CH₂) and the like.

“C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl” refers to C₂-C₆-alkenyl groups having an arylsubstituent, including 2-phenylvinyl and the like.

“C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl” refers to C₂-C₆-alkenyl groups having aheteroaryl substituent, including 2-(3-pyridinyl)vinyl and the like.

“C₂-C₆-alkynyl” refers to alkynyl groups preferably having from 2 to 6carbon atoms and having at least 1-2 sites of alkynyl unsaturation,preferred alkynyl groups include ethynyl (—C≡CH), propargyl (—CH₂C≡CH),and the like.

“C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl” refers to C₂-C₆-alkynyl groups having an arylsubstituent, including phenylethynyl and the like.

“C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl” refers to C₂-C₆-alkynyl groups having aheteroaryl substituent, including 2-thienylethynyl and the like.

“C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl” refers to a saturated carbocyclic group of from 3 to8 carbon atoms having a single ring (e.g., cyclohexyl) or multiplecondensed rings (e.g., norbornyl). Preferred cycloalkyl includecyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, norbornyl and the like.

“Heterocycloalkyl” refers to a C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl group according to thedefinition above, in which up to 3 carbon atoms are replaced byheteroatoms chosen from the group consisting of O, S, NR, R beingdefined as hydrogen or methyl. Preferred heterocycloalkyl includepyrrolidine, piperidine, piperazine, 1-methylpiperazine, morpholine, andthe like.

“C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl” refers to C₁-C₆-alkyl groups having acycloalkyl substituent, including cyclohexylmethyl, cyclopentylpropyl,and the like.

“C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl” refers to C₁-C₆-alkyl groups having aheterocycloalkyl substituent, including 2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethyl,4-morpholinylmethyl, (1-methyl-4-piperidinyl)methyl and the like.

“Carboxy” refers to the group —C(O)OH.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having an carboxysubstituent, including 2-carboxyethyl and the like.

“Acyl” refers to the group —(O)R where R includes “C₁-C₆-alkyl”, “aryl”,“heteroaryl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having an acylsubstituent, including 2-acetylethyl and the like.

“Acyloxy” refers to the group —OC(O)R where R includes “C₁-C₆-alkyl”,“aryl”, “hetero-aryl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having an acyloxysubstituent, including 2-(acetyloxy)ethyl and the like.

“Alkoxy” refers to the group —O—R where R includes “C₁-C₆-alkyl” or“aryl” or “hetero-aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkylheteroaryl”. Preferred alkoxy groups include by way of example, methoxy,ethoxy, phenoxy and the like.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having an alkoxysubstituent, including 2-ethoxyethyl and the like.

“Alkoxycarbonyl” refers to the group —C(O)OR where R includes H,“C₁-C₆-alkyl” or “aryl” or “heteroaryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or“C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having analkoxycarbonyl substituent, including 2-(benzyloxycarbonyl)ethyl and thelike.

“Aminocarbonyl” refers to the group —C(O)NRR′ where each R, R′ includesindependently hydrogen or C₁-C₆-alkyl or aryl or heteroaryl or“C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl hetero-aryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having anaminocarbonyl substituent, including 2-(dimethylaminocarbonyl)ethyl andthe like.

“Acylamino” refers to the group —NRC(O)R′ where each R, R′ isindependently hydrogen or “C₁-C₆-alkyl” or “aryl” or “heteroaryl” or“C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having an acylaminosubstituent, including 2-(propionylamino)ethyl and the like.

“Ureido” refers to the group —NRC(O)NR′R″ where each R, R′, R″ isindependently hydrogen or “C₁-C₆-alkyl” or “aryl” or “heteroaryl” or“C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl” “cycloalkyl” or“heterocycloalkyl”, and where R′ and R″, together with the nitrogen atomto which they are attached, can optionally form a 3-8-memberedhetero-cycloalkyl ring.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having an ureidosubstituent, including 2-(N′-methylureido)ethyl and the like.

“Amino” refers to the group —NRR′ where each R,R′ is independentlyhydrogen or “C₁-C₆-alkyl” or “aryl” or “heteroaryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkylaryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”, or “cycloalkyl”, or“heterocycloalkyl”, and where R and R′, together with the nitrogen atomto which they are attached, can optionally form a 3-8-memberedheterocycloalkyl ring.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl amino” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having an aminosubstituent, including 2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethyl and the like.

“Ammonium” refers to a positively charged group —N⁺RR′R″, where eachR,R′,R″ is independently “C₁-C₆-alkyl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or“C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”, or “cycloalkyl”, or “heterocycloalkyl”, andwhere R and R′, together with the nitrogen atom to which they areattached, can optionally form a 3-8-membered heterocycloalkyl ring.

“Halogen” refers to fluoro, chloro, bromo and iodo atoms.

“Sulfonyloxy” refers to a group —OSO₂—R wherein R is selected from H,“C₁-C₆-alkyl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl” substituted with halogens, e.g., an—OSO₂—CF₃ group, “aryl”, “heteroaryl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or“C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having asulfonyloxy substituent, including 2-(methylsulfonyloxy)ethyl and thelike.

“Sulfonyl” refers to group “—SO₂—R” wherein R is selected from H,“aryl”, “heteroaryl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl” substituted withhalogens, e.g., an —SO₂—CF₃ group, “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkylheteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having a sulfonylsubstituent, including 2-(methylsulfonyl)ethyl and the like.

“Sulfinyl” refers to a group “—S(O)—R” wherein R is selected from H,“C₁-C₆-alkyl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl” substituted with halogens, e.g., an —SO—CF₃group, “aryl”, “heteroaryl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkylheteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having a sulfinylsubstituent, including 2-(methylsulfinyl)ethyl and the like.

“Sulfonyl” refers to groups —S—R where R includes “C₁-C₆-alkyl” or“aryl” or “hetero-aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkylheteroaryl”. Preferred sulfanyl groups include methylsulfanyl,ethylsulfanyl, and the like.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having a sulfanylsubstituent, including 2-(ethylsulfanyl)ethyl and the like.

“Sulfonylamino” refers to a group —NRSO₂—R′ where each R, R′ isindependently hydrogen or “C₁-C₆-alkyl” or “aryl” or “heteroaryl” or“C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl” or “C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl”.

“C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonylamino” refers to C₁-C₅-alkyl groups having asulfonylamino substituent, including 2-(ethylsulfonylamino)ethyl and thelike.

“Substituted or unsubstituted”: Unless otherwise constrained by thedefinition of the individual substituent, the above set out groups, like“alkyl”, “alkenyl”, “alkynyl”, “aryl” and “heteroaryl” etc. groups canoptionally be substituted with from 1 to 5 substituents selected fromthe group consisting of “C₁-C₆-alkyl”, “C₂-C₆-alkenyl”, “C₂-C₆-alkynyl”,“cyclo-alkyl”, “heterocycloalkyl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl”, “C₁-C₆-alkylheteroaryl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl”, “C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl”,“amino”, “ammonium”, “acyl”, “acyloxy”, “acylamino”, “aminocarbonyl”,“alkoxycarbonyl”, “ureido”, “aryl”, “heteroaryl”, “sulfinyl”,“sulfonyl”, “alkoxy”, “sulfonyl”, “halogen”, “carboxy”, trihalomethyl,cyano, hydroxy, mercapto, nitro, and the like. Alternatively saidsubstitution could also comprise situations where neighbouringsubstituents have undergone ring closure, notably when vicinalfunctional substituents are involved, thus forming, e.g., lactams,lactons, cyclic anhydrides, but also acetals, thioacetals, animalsformed by ring closure for instance in an effort to obtain a protectivegroup.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salts or complexes” refers to salts orcomplexes of the below-identified compounds of formulae (I) and (II)that retain the desired biological activity. Examples of such saltsinclude, but are not restricted to acid addition salts formed withinorganic acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuricacid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, and the like), and salts formed withorganic acids such as acetic acid, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, succinicacid, malic acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, ascorbic acid, benzoicacid, tannic acid, pamoic acid, alginic acid, polyglutamic acid,naphthalene sulfonic acid, naphthalene disulfonic acid, andpoly-galacturonic acid. Said compounds can also be administered aspharmaceutically acceptable quaternary salts known by a person skilledin the art, which specifically include the quaternary ammonium salt ofthe formula —NR,R′,R″⁺Z⁻, wherein R, R′, R″ is independently hydrogen,alkyl, or benzyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, C₁-C₆-alkylaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, and Z is acounterion, including chloride, bromide, iodide, —O-alkyl,toluenesulfonate, methylsulfonate, sulfonate, phosphate, or carboxylate(such as benzoate, succinate, acetate, glycolate, maleate, malate,fumarate, citrate, tartrate, ascorbate, cinnamate, mandelate, anddiphenylacetate).

“Pharmaceutically active derivative” refers to any compound that uponadministration to the recipient is capable of providing directly orindirectly, the activity disclosed herein.

“Enantiomeric excess” (ee) refers to the products that are obtained byan asymmetric synthesis, i.e. a synthesis involving non-racemic startingmaterials and/or reagents or a synthesis comprising at least oneenantioselective step, whereby a surplus of one enantiomer in the orderof at least about 52% ee is yielded.

Said formula also comprises its tautomers, its geometrical isomers, itsoptically active forms as enantiomers, diastereomers and its racemateforms, as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Preferredpharmaceutically acceptable salts of the formula (I) are acid additionsalts formed with pharmaceutically acceptable acids like hydrochloride,hydrobromide, sulfate or bisulfate, phosphate or hydrogen phosphate,acetate, benzoate, succinate, fumarate, maleate, lactate, citrate,tartrate, gluconate, methanesulfonate, benzenesulfonate, andpara-toluenesulfonate salts.

A first aspect of the present invention consists in the use of compoundsof formula (II)

as well as its geometrical isomers, its optically active forms asenantiomers, diastereomers and its racemate forms, as well aspharmaceutically acceptable salts and pharmaceutically activederivatives thereof, for the preparation of a medicament for thetreatment and/or prevention of preterm labor, premature birth,dysmenorrhea, and for stopping labor prior to cesarean delivery.

The substituents within formula (II) are defined as follows:

G is selected from the group consisting of substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl,substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₃-C₈-cycloalkyl or -heterocycloalkyl, said cycloalkyl or aryl orheteroaryl groups may be fused with cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroarylgroups.

R¹ is selected from the group consisting of substituted or unsubstitutedaryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted orunsubstituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl or -heterocyclo-alkyl, said(hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups may be fused with(hetero)-cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups.

R² is H, carboxy, acyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aminocarbonyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkylalkoxycarbonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl amino,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈-alkyl sulfonylamino, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkenyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl,substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocycloalkyl,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted orunsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkylheterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl,substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, substituted orunsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, or substituted or unsubstitutedC₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl.

Alternatively, R² and G may form a C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl ring.

R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl.

n is an integer from 0 to 2.

According to one embodiment, G is an aryl group, e.g., a substituted orunsubstituted phenyl, like a biphenyl.

Compounds according to formula (II) are particularly useful for thetreatment, including the acute management and the prophylaxis, ofpreterm labor.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the compounds according toformula (II) are suitable for the modulation, notably the inhibition ofthe activity of prostaglandins and particularly prostaglandin F_(2α). Itis therefore believed that the compounds of the present invention arealso particularly useful for the treatment and/or prevention ofdisorders which are mediated by prostaglandin F_(2α). Said treatmentinvolves the modulation—notably the inhibition or the down regulation—ofthe prostaglandin function.

A further aspect of the invention consists in novel thiazolidinecarboxamide derivatives of formula (I), wherein G′ is a substituted orunsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substitutedor unsubstituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl or -heterocycloalkyl, said cycloalkylor aryl or heteroaryl groups may be fused with cycloalkyl or aryl orheteroaryl groups.

More preferred compounds have the formula (Ia):

Formulae (I), (Ia) and (II) comprise also the geometrical isomers, theoptically active forms, including enantiomers, diastereoisomers and itsracemate forms, as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts andpharmaceutically active derivatives thereof.

Substituents in formulae (I) and/or (Ia) are defined as follows:

R¹ is selected from the group consisting of substituted or unsubstitutedaryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted orunsubstituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl or -heterocyclo-alkyl, said(hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups may be fused with(hetero)cyclo-alkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups.

In a more preferred embodiment according to the invention, R¹ isselected from the group consisting of an aryl or heteroaryl groupoptionally substituted with one or several substituents selected fromthe group consisting of aryl, heteroaryl, halogen, alkoxy, sulfanyl,straight or branched C₁-C₆-alkyl.

R² is selected from the group consisting of H, carboxy, acyl,substituted or unsubstituted alkoxycarbonyl, substituted orunsubstituted aminocarbonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkylcarboxy, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl amino-carbonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkylacyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, substitutedor unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl amino, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkylsulfonylamino, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substitutedor unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl,substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, substituted orunsubstituted heterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkylaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substitutedor unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenylaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, substitutedor unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, or substituted or unsubstitutedC₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl.

In a preferred embodiment, R² is selected from the group consisting ofcarboxy, acyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkoxycarbonyl,aminocarbonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkylacyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈-alkyl acylamino, substitutedor unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl amino, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkylsulfonylamino, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy,substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstitutedheteroaryl.

More specifically, R² may be a group C₁-C₃-alkyl-A-R⁵, wherein:

A is O or N—B—R⁶.

B is a bond, an amino acid residue (e.g. alanine, phenylalanine, valine,leucine, isoleucine, proline, glycine, methionine, tryptophane,threonine, serine, etc.), (C═O), (C═O)—O, (C═O)—NR⁷, or SO₂.

R⁵, R⁶ and R⁷ are independently from each other selected from the groupconsisting of H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substitutedor unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted orunsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkylor heterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenylaryl or heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl or-heteroaryl.

R⁵ and B—R⁶ (in particular if B is a bond), and similarly R⁶ and R⁷ (ifB is (C═O)—NR⁷), together with the respective nitrogen atoms to whichthey are attached, can optionally form substituted or unsubstitutedheterocycloalkyl rings.

In an even more preferred embodiment, R² is C₁-C₃-alkyl-A-R⁵ wherein Ais O and R⁵ is H, or A is N—B—R⁶ with B being a bond, and R⁵ and R⁶being each independently from each other selected from the groupconsisting of substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl, e.g. C₁-C₃-alkylhydroxy, C₁-C₃-alkyl carboxy, C₁-C₃-alkyl aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₃-alkylalkoxycarbonyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl aryl,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₃-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkylhydroxy, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl carboxy, substitutedor unsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl aminocarbonyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₃-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl.

According to a further preferred embodiment, R² is a substituted orunsubstituted phenyl, pyrid-2-yl, pyrid-3-yl, or pyrid-4-yl.

Said phenyl, pyrid-2-yl, pyrid-3-yl, or pyrid-4-yl moieties mayoptionally be substituted by at least one substituent selected from thegroup consisting of H, hydroxy, halogen, carboxy, acyl, aminocarbonyl,acylamino, C₁-C₃-alkyl amino, C₁-C₃-alkyl alkoxy, C₁-C₃-alkyl carboxy,C₁-C₃-alkyl acyl, C₁-C₃-alkyl aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₃-alkyl acylamino,C₁-C₃-alkyl ureido, C₁-C₃-alkyl sulfanyl, C₁-C₃-alkyl sulfinyl,C₁-C₃-alkyl sulfonyl, C₁-C₃-alkyl sulfonylamino. Most preferredsubstituents are methoxy, carboxy-methoxy, hydroxy-methyl,carboxymethyl, sulfonyloxymethyl, dimethylaminomethyl,4-morpholinylmethyl, 1-piperidinylmethyl, 1-pyrrolidinylmethyl,(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-methyl, ethoxy, 2-methoxyethoxy,2-hydroxyethoxy, 2-carboxymethoxy, 2-sulfonyloxy-ethoxy,2-(dimethyl-amino)ethoxy, 2-(4-morpholinyl)ethoxy,2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethoxy, 2-(1-piperidinyl)ethoxy,2-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)ethoxy, 2-hydroxyethyl, 2-methoxyethyl,2-carboxyethyl, 2-sulfonyloxyethyl, 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl,2-(4-morpholinyl)ethyl, 2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethyl, 2-(1-piperidinyl)ethyl,2-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)ethyl, propoxy, 3-methoxypropoxy,3-hydroxypropoxy, 3-carboxypropoxy, 3-sulfonyloxypropoxy,3-(dimethylamino)propoxy, 3-(4-morpholinyl)propoxy,3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)propoxy, 3-(1-piperidinyl)propoxy,3-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)propoxy, 3-hydroxypropyl, 3-methoxypropyl,3-carboxypropyl, 3-sulfonyloxypropyl, 3-(dimethylamino)propyl,3-(4-morpholinyl)propyl, 3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-propyl,3-(1-piperidinyl)propyl, 3-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)propyl.

R³ is selected from the group consisting of substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl,heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl or substitutedor unsubstituted heterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl,substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₁-C₃-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₂-C₆-alkenyl-aryl or -heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstitutedC₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl or -heteroaryl, carboxy, cyano, halogen, hydroxy,alkoxy, nitro, acylamino, ureido, sulfonylamino, sulfanyl, or sulfonyl.

m is an integer from 0 to 3 and n is an integer from 0 to 2.

R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of substituted or unsubstitutedC₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted orunsubstituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, R¹ is a phenyl substituted witha group selected from straight or branched C₁-C₅-alkyl or aryl, R² isselected from the group consisting of C₁-C₃-alkyl-A-R⁵ wherein A is Oand R⁵ is H, or A is N—B—R⁶ with B being a bond and R⁵ and R⁶ being eachindependently selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₃-alkyl,C₁-C₃-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₃-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₃-alkyl-hydroxy.

In a more particularly preferred embodiment, R¹ is a biphenyl or atert-butyl phenyl group, R² is C₁-C₃-alkyl-A-R⁵, wherein A is O and R⁵is H, or A is N—B—R⁶, R⁵ and R⁶ are each independently from each otherC₁-C₃-alkyl, C₁-C₃-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₃-alkyl heteroaryl, or C₁-C₃-alkylhydroxy, B is a bond, R³ is fluorine, m is either 0, 1, or 2, and n is0.

In another more particularly preferred embodiment, R¹ is a biphenyl or atert-butyl phenyl group, R² is pyrid-2-yl, carrying one or severalsubstituents selected from the group consisting of H, OH, alkoxy,C₁-C₃-alkyl amino, C₁-C₃-alkyl hydroxy, C₁-C₃-alkyl carboxy, C₁-C₃-alkylsulfonyloxy, R³ is fluorine, m is either 0, 1, or 2, and n is 0.

Compounds of the present invention are in particular those of the groupconsisting of:

-   (2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2R)-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2R)—N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-3-[(4-tert-pentylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-2-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropanoic    acid-   (2S)-2-[({3-[(5-chloro-3-methyl-1-benzothien-2-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]-3-phenylpropanoic    acid-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—((1S)-3-{methyl[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([,    1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-1-phenyl-2-propenyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-(diethylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[(2-hydroxymethyl(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[(2-hydroxyethyl)(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[2-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-phenyl-2-{[(3-{[5-(2-pyridinyl)-2-thienyl]sulfonyl}-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl)carbonyl]amino}propanoic    acid-   (2S)—N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-3-[(4-tert-pentylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)—N-{(1S)-3-[benzyl(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(1-phenyl-3-{[(2S)-tetrahydro-2-furanylmethyl]amino}-propyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(1-phenyl-3-{[2-(1-piperidinyl)ethyl]amino}propyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(1-phenyl-3-{[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethyl]amino}propyl)    1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(1-phenyl-3-{[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethyl]amino}propyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2,3-difluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2,4-difluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2,5-difluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2,6-difluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-chloro-4-fluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-fluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-furyl-methyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-methylbenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-thienylmethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3,4-difluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[(2R)-2-hydroxy-2-phenylethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[(2S)-2-hydroxypropyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[(5-methyl-2-furyl)methyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[2-(1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[2-(1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)ethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[2-(4-morpholinyl)ethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[3-(2-oxo-1-pyrrolidinyl)propyl]amino}-1-phenyl-propyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{[3-(4-morpholinyl)propyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{methyl[(14S)-1-phenylethyl]amino}-1-phenyl-propyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{methyl[(1S)-1-phenylethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-{methyl[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethyl]amino}-1-phenyl-propyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-chloro-4-fluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-fluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-methylbenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-phenoxy-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-pyridinylmethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(4-phenoxybenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(-oxido-2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide    1-oxide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(1S)-2-hydroxy-1-phenylethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-1-phenylethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-{6-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]-2-pyridinyl}-(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(S)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2-chlorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(3-chlorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(3-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(4-chlorophenyl)ethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-phenyl-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-phenyl-3-({[(1S,2R,3R,5S)-2,6,6-trimethylbicyclo-[3.1.1]hept-3-yl]methyl}amino)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-phenyl-3-(1-piperazinyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-phenyl-3-(1-piperidinyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-phenyl-3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[2-(4-morpholinyl)-1-phenylethyl    1]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[2-(dimethylamino)-1-phenylethyl]1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-((3R)-3-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dihydro-2(1H)-isoquinolinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-((3S)-3-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dihydro-2(1H)-isoquinolinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(2,5-dihydro-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(3,5-dimethyl-1-piperidinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(3,6-dihydro-1(2H)-pyridinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(3-hydroxy-1-piperidinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(3-hydroxy-1-pyrrolidinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(3-methyl-1-piperidinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(4-hydroxy-1-piperidinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(4-hydroxy-4-phenyl-1-piperidinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(4-morpholinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(diethylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(dimethylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-hydroxy-1-(2-methoxyphenyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-hydroxy-1-(2-methylphenyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-hydroxy-1-(3-methoxyphenyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-hydroxy-1-(3-pyridinyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-hydroxy-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-hydroxy-1-(4-methylphenyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{1-phenyl-3-[(2-phenylethyl)amino]propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{1-phenyl-3-[(2-phenylpropyl)amino]propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{1-phenyl-3-[(2-pyridinylmethyl)amino]propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{1-phenyl-3-[(3-pyridinylmethyl)amino]propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{1-phenyl-3-[(tetrahydro-2-furanylmethyl)amino]-propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{1-phenyl-3-[4-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-1-piperidinyl]propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-furylmethyl)(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-furylmethyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxy-2-phenylethyl)(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxy-2-phenylethyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxycyclohexyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxyethyl)(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxypropyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2R)-2-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrolidinyl]-1-phenyl-propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2R)-2-(methoxymethyl)pyrrolidinyl]-1-phenyl-propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2S)-2-(methoxymethyl)pyrrolidinyl]-1-phenyl-propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(3,5-difluorobenzyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(3-hydroxy-3-phenylpropyl)(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(3-hydroxypropyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(3R)-3-hydroxypyrrolidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(4-fluorobenzyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[[3-(dimethylamino)propyl](methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[2-(hydroxymethyl)-1-piperidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[3-(hydroxymethyl)-1-piperidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[4-(hydroxymethyl)-1-piperidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[methyl(2-phenylethyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(3′,4′-dichloro[,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N-[1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4′-chloro[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N-[1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(2-pyridinylmethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl]-N-{4-[({[(2-ethylhexyl)amino]carbonyl}amino)methyl]benzyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl]-N-{4-[({[(2-phenylethyl)amino]carbonyl}amino)methyl]benzyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl]-N-{4-[({[(4-methylbenzyl)amino]carbonyl}amino)methyl]benzyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4′-fluoro[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N-[1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-iodophenyl)sulfonyl]-N-{4-[({[(4-methylbenzyl)amino]carbonyl}amino)methyl]-benzyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(1,2-diphenylethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(1-phenylethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-yl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(2-furylmethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(2-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-(3-pyridinylmethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-[2-(1H-indol-3-yl)-1-methylethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-{[1-(4-chlorophenyl)cyclopropyl]methyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-{4-[3-(dimethylamino)propoxy]benzyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-{[5-(3-isoxazolyl)-2-thienyl]sulfonyl}-N-{4-[({[(2-phenylethyl)amino]carbonyl}-amino)methyl]benzyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide    ethyl    {4-[(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}-amino)-3-phenylpropyl]-1-piperazinyl}acetate-   methyl[[(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}-amino)-3-phenylpropyl](methyl)amino]acetate-   5    N-(2,2-diphenylethyl)-3-(8-quinolinylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-(2-aminobenzyl)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-(3-{[2-(acetylamino)ethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-(3-amino-1-phenylpropyl)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-(3-aminobenzyl)-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-(3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl)-3-[(4-phenoxyphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-(4-aminobenzyl)-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[(1R)-1-benzyl-2-hydroxyethyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[(6-amino-3-pyridinyl)methyl]-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[1-(1-benzofuran-2-yl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-[(2′-methyl[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-[(4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-[(4′-methyl[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[3-(1-azepanyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[3-(4-acetyl-1-piperazinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[3-(4-benzyl-4-hydroxy-1-piperidinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[3-(acetylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[3-(benzylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[4-({[(hexylamino)carbonyl]amino}methyl)benzyl]-3-(phenylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-[4-({[(hexylamino)carbonyl]amino}methyl)benzyl]-3-{[5-(3-isoxazolyl)-2-thienyl]sulfonyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-{3-[(1-adamantylmethyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-{3-[(2R)-2-(anilinomethyl)pyrrolidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   5    N-{3-[(2S)-2-(anilinomethyl)pyrrolidinyl]-1-phenylpropyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-{3-[benzyl(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-{3-[benzyl(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-{4-[({[(2-ethylhexyl)amino]carbonyl}amino)methyl]benzyl}-3-[(4-iodophenyl)-sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-benzhydryl-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-benzhydryl-3-(8-quinolinylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-benzyl    {3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}methanamine-   N-benzyl-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   N-benzyl-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide    tert-butyl    3-{[({3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]-methyl}phenylcarbamate-   tert-butyl    5-{2-[({3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]-ethyl}-2-pyridinylcarbamate-   (3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)propyl    L-valinate-   (3S)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]propyl    L-valinate-   (3S)-3-({[(2S-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropyl    L-valinate-   (3S)-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]-3-phenylpropyl    L-valinate-   3-({[(3S)-3-({[3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropyl]amino}sulfonyl)benzoic    acid-   (2S)—N-[(1S)-1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N—[(S)—(-methylpiperidin-4-yl)(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(2-chloropyridin-4-yl)(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(6-hydroxypyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-4-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-[(4-iodophenyl)sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[[5-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl](phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   5 methyl    2-methyl-2-(4-{[2-({[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-3-yl]sulfonyl}phenyl)propanoate-   (2S)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[methyl(methylsulfonyl)amino]-1-phenyl-propyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-{[4-(2-fluoro-1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl]sulfonyl}-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (2S)-3-[(4-bromophenyl)sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   (3S)-3-phenyl-3-[(f{(2S)-3-[(4-vinylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]-propyl    L-valinate-   3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[{5-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]pyridin-2-yl}(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[[6-(dimethylamino)pyridin-3-yl](phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide-   3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[phenyl(1-L-valylpiperidin-4-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Still a further aspect of the present invention is the use of the novelcompounds of formula (I) as medicament.

Still a further object of the present invention is a process forpreparing 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives according toformula (I).

The 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives exemplified in thisinvention may be prepared from readily available starting materialsusing the following general methods and procedures. It will beappreciated that where typical or preferred experimental conditions(i.e. reaction temperatures, time, moles of reagents, solvents etc.) aregiven, other experimental conditions can also be used unless otherwisestated. Optimum reaction conditions may vary with the particularreactants or solvents used, but such conditions can be determined by theperson skilled in the art, using routine optimisation procedures.

Generally, the 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of the presentinvention may be obtained by several synthetic approaches, using bothsolution-phase and solid-phase chemistry protocols.

According to one process, illustrated in Scheme 1 below,1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives according to the generalformula (I), whereby R¹, R², R⁴, G′ and n are as above defined, may beprepared from the corresponding carboxylic acid compounds (111), amines(IV), and sulfonyl chlorides (VI), using standard solution-phasechemistry protocols well known to the practitioner skilled in the art.Intermediates of formula V, wherein PG is a suitable N-protecting group(such as Boc, Fmoc, Cbz, and others), can be obtained from thecorresponding carboxylic acid compounds (III) and amines (IV) usingstandard amide coupling conditions well known to the practitionerskilled in the art. Removal of the N-protecting group (e.g., in caseswhere PG is Boc, using dilute TFA in DCM, or HCl in Dioxane/DCMmixtures), followed by treatment with sulfonylchlorides (VI) inconjunction with a suitable base (such as TEA, DIEA, pyridine, andothers), yields products of general formula (I).

According to another process, illustrated below in Scheme2,1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid derivatives (VII) may be reactedwith sulfonyl chlorides (VI), using well known standard solution-phasechemistry protocols, such as e.g. the Schotten-Baumann conditions,affording intermediates of general formula (VIII). The latter cansubsequently be reacted with amines (IV) using standard peptide couplingconditions well known to the practitioner skilled in the art, to yieldproducts of general formula (I).

According to yet another process, illustrated in Scheme 3,1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid ester derivatives (IX) may be reactedwith sulfonyl chlorides (VI), followed by saponification of the estermoiety using standard reagents like NaOH, HCl, Boron tribromide,KOSi(CH₃)₃, or others, to allow isolation of the correspondingcarboxylic acid intermediates (VIII). The latter are then reacted withamines (IV) using standard amide coupling conditions well known to thepractitioner skilled in the art to yield products of general formula(I).

The racemic 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid derivatives (III), (VII),and (IX) presented in Schemes 1-3 are either obtained from commercialsources, or prepared from commercially available starting materials bystandard methods detailed in the literature.

The sulfonyl chlorides (VI) presented in Schemes 1-3, wherein R¹ is asabove defined, are either commercially available or prepared by standardmethods well known to the person skilled in the art, e.g. by treatmentof the corresponding sulfonic acids (X) with chlorination agents, suchas, e.g., SO₂Cl₂, SOCl₂, dimethylphosgeniminium chloride, and others, orby treatment of a suitable precursor (XI) with a chlorosulfonylationreagent, such as, e.g. CISO₃H (see Scheme 4).

The sulfonic acids (X) and precursors (XI) are either obtained fromcommercial sources or synthesized from commercial starting materials,using standard methods well known to those skilled in the art, of whichsome are exemplified in Scheme 5 and described hereinafter in theExamples. Thus, e.g., bromobenzenesulfonates (XII) may be reacted withboronic acids (XIII) in presence of a palladium catalyst to yield thesulfonic acids (X). Alternatively, bromobenzenesulfonates (XII) may beconverted into the corresponding sulfonic esters (XIV) by treatmentwith, e.g., thionyl chloride followed by 2-methyl-1-propanol. Sulfonicesters (XIV) can then be transformed in to the corresponding boronicacid derivatives (XV) using, e.g., triisopropylborate in the presence ofn-butyllithium. Palladium(0) catalysed cross-coupling between theboronic acid derivatives (XV) and suitable substituted or unsubstitutedaryl or heteroaryl halides affords the desired sulfonic acids (X).

The amine compounds (IV) presented in Schemes 1-3, wherein R² and G′ areas above defined, are either obtained from commercial sources or madefrom commercial starting materials using standard protocols well knownto the person skilled in the art, as shown in the below Schemes andillustrated hereinafter in the Examples.

In those cases where R² and G′ are substituted or unsubstituted aryl orheteroaryl moieties, the amine compounds (IV) may be obtained using,e.g., the process shown in Scheme 6. Therein, substituted orunsubstituted aromatic or heteroaromatic aldehydes (XVI) are reactedwith commercially available aminoalcohols (XVII) to form thecorresponding imines (XVIII), followed by addition of a carbanionspecies (XIX), such as, e.g., a Grignard reagent, organocuprate ororganolithium reagents, or others, using standard conditions well knownto the person skilled in the art. The resulting secondary amines (XX)can subsequently be converted into the corresponding primary amineanalogues (IV) by oxidative cleavage using, e.g., periodic acid, asdescribed hereinafter in the Examples. This process also allows for theobtention of optically pure amines (IV*), by means of using opticallyactive aminoalcohols (XVII*), as described hereinafter in Scheme z.

The substituted or unsubstituted aryl and heteroaryl aldehydes (XVI orXVI*) are either obtained from commercial sources, or made by one of thenumerous pertinent processes detailed in the literature and well knownthe person skilled in the art. As an exemplification, one such processis shown in Scheme 7 and described hereinafter in the Examples.

Others substituted or unsubstituted aryl and heteroaryl aldehydes (XVI*)are either obtained from commercial sources, or made by one of thenumerous pertinent processes detailed in the literature and well knownthe person skilled in the art. As an other exemplification, one suchprocess is shown in Scheme 8 and described hereinafter in the Examples.

In those cases where R² and G′ are substituted or unsubstituted aryl orheteroaryl or heterocyclic moieties, the amine compounds (IV) may beobtained using, e.g., the process shown in Scheme 9. Therein,substituted or unsubstituted aromatic (XVII*) are reacted with acylchlorides (XVIII*) to form the corresponding ketones (XIX*), or byreaction of substituted or unsubstituted lithiated aromatic (XXXXI*)with nitriles derivatives (XXXXII*). The ketones (XIX*) were thentreated with hydroxylamine to give the corresponding oxime (XXXXIII′).Subsequent reduction of the oxime (XXXXIII′) with an appropriatedreductive agent, using standard conditions well known to the personskilled in the art, allow to access to the amine compounds (IV) asdescribed hereinafter in the Examples.

The amines (IV) where R² and G′ are substituted or unsubstituted aryl orheteroaryl or heterocyclic moieties, can be obtained from the ketoneXIX* as shown below in Scheme 10, by treatment with an appropriate amine(XXXXV) to give compound XXXXVI after nucleophile substitution.Following subsequent treatments as outlined above in Scheme 9, thecorresponding amines IV were isolated as pure compounds.

The amine compounds (IV) presented in Schemes 1-3, in which R²represents a moiety of the general structure C₁-C₆-alkyl-A-R⁵, wherebythe substituents A and R⁵ are as above defined, are either commerciallyavailable or may be obtained using, e.g., one of the processesexemplified in Scheme 7-9 and described hereinafter in the Examples. Aparticularly preferred process consists in the transformation of onefunctional moiety (R²) into a different one (R^(2′)), using any knownfunctional group interconversion protocols. As illustrated in Scheme 11,and described hereinafter in the Examples, these functional groupinterconversions can be effected on the level of either the free amines(IV, IV′), or the suitably protected amines (XXIV, XXIV′), or the1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compounds (V, V′) or (I, I′). The choiceof the best synthetic strategy will be governed by the nature of thefunctional groups to be interconverted, and the compatibility of therequired reaction conditions with other functional groups present in thecorresponding compounds, as will be well appreciated by the personskilled in the art. Amongst the most preferred starting materials (IV),and the corresponding derivatives (XXIV), (V), and (I), are thosewherein R² is —COOH and/or —CH₂COOH, i.e., alpha- and/or beta-aminoacids, which are either obtained from commercial sources or made by oneof the numerous processes described in the literature. From theintermediates (XXV) derived thereof, in which R is as defined in Scheme11, a wide range of derivatives, such as e.g. (XXVI)-(XXXVI), in whichR⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, n, G′ and B are as above defined, can be obtained byreaction sequences including oxidations, reductions, O- andN-alkylations, reductive alkylations and aminations, chain-elongations,Mitsunobu reactions, Acylation, debocylation, Wittig reactions,acylations, sulfonylations and any other appropriate transformationsleading to functional group interconversions, some of which beingexemplified in Scheme 11. The synthetic examples cited in Scheme 11 aremeant to illustrate the concept of functional group interconversion asapplied to compounds of general structures (IV), (XXIV), (V), and (I),wherein R, R² and G′ are as defined in the above description and inScheme 11, and are not construed to be viewed as limiting the scope ofsaid synthetic approach.

The processes outlined in the above Schemes, in particular Schemes 1-3,usually afford mixtures of stereoisomers, such as diastereomers and/orenantiomers, when racemic starting materials (III), (IV), (VII), and/or(IX) are used, due to the presence of at least one, most often two, andin some cases three or more, asymmetric carbon atoms in the compounds ofgeneral formula (I). Pure stereoisomers can be obtained from themixtures by current separation methods, including, e.g., flashchromatography, HPLC, crystallization, and others.

According to another process, less complex mixtures of stereoisomers upto pure stereoisomers can be obtained by using the correspondingoptically pure starting materials (III*), (IV*), (VII*), and/or (IX*)for the syntheses outlined in the above Schemes, in particular Schemes1-3. Optically pure amines (IV*) are either obtained from commercialsources or made by current methods known to the person skilled in theart, including stereoselective chemical synthesis, chemical resolution,enzymatic resolution, or combinations thereof, as exemplified in Scheme12 and in the Examples hereinafter. Thus, optically pure amines (IV*)can be obtained, e.g., by adapting the process outlined in Scheme 6above, by means of using a chiral auxiliary (XVII*), such as, e.g.,valinol or others, which are obtained in optically pure form either fromcommercial sources or by standard methods described in the literature(Scheme 7-9, Example A). Alternatively, as shown in Scheme 12 (ExampleB), chiral amines (IV*) may be obtained by enzymatic resolution ofappropriate racemic precursors (IV), and subsequently transformed intoother chiral amines (IV′*) by standard functional group interconversionmethods, such as those outlined in Scheme 11 above. Similarly to theobtention of enantiomerically pure amines (IV*), optically pure1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid derivatives (III*), (VII*), and/or(IX*) can be obtained by stereoselective chemical synthesis, chemicalresolution, enzymatic resolution, or combinations thereof. The Examplescited above and shown in Scheme 11 are meant to illustrate thepreparation of optically pure starting materials, and are not construedto be viewed as limiting the scope of said synthetic approach.

According to yet another process, illustrated in Scheme 13, thecarboxylic acid intermediates (VIII) may be reacted with amines (IV) tolead to the corresponding carboxylic acid intermediate (Ia). The primaryamide compound (Ib) was isolated after formation of the anhydridemixture of the carboxylic acid compound (Ia) and treatment with anexcess of ammonia. Dehydration of the primary amide (Ib) with cyanuricchloride allow to access to the nitrile derivative (Ic), which wassubsequently treated with hydroxylamine to give the amidoxime (Id). Theamidoxime intermediate (Id) was then reacted with an appropriatedcarboxylic acid using standard amide coupling conditions and heated upto allow cyclisation and formation of the final compound oxadiazoleusing conditions well known to the practitioner skilled in the art toyield products of general formula (I).

The processes hitherto outlined describe the synthesis of1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of general formula (I) bysolution-phase methods. According to yet another approach,1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of formula (I), wherein thesubstituents R¹, R², R⁴, G′ and n are as above defined, are prepared bysolid-phase protocols, such as, e.g., that outlined in Schemes 1-12 anddescribed hereinafter in the Examples. Therein, the filled circlessymbolize the resin beads to which the corresponding compounds arelinked during the solid phase synthesis. Thus, suitably N-protected1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acids (III) are reacted, e.g., with Kaiseroxime resin using, e.g., standard carbodiimide-mediated couplingconditions well known to the practitioner skilled in the art, followedby removal of the protecting group. The resulting intermediates aretreated with sulfonyl chlorides (VI) in the presence of a base,affording resin-bound intermediates of general formula (XXXIX). In orderto obtain the final compounds of general formula (I), the linkage to theresin is cleaved by prolonged treatment with amines (IV) and, in certaincases, low percentages of a weak acid, such as HOAc. Other derivativesof formula (I) are prepared using known modifications to, or variationsof, the Scheme 14 reaction sequence. Further to the above mentionedKaiser oxime resin, other suitable reagents, notably resins, known to aperson skilled in the art, could be employed for the solid-phasesynthesis of compounds of general formula (I).

If the above set out general synthetic methods are not applicable toobtaining compounds according to formula (I) and/or to necessaryintermediates for the synthesis of compounds of formula (I), suitablemethods of preparation known by a person skilled on the art should beused. In general, the synthesis pathways for any individual compound offormula (I) will depend on the specific substitutents of each moleculeand upon the ready availability of intermediates necessary; again suchfactors being appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. For allthe protection and deprotection methods, see Philip J. Kocienski, in“Protecting Groups”, Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart, N.Y., 1994 and,Theodora W. Greene and Peter G. M. Wuts in “Protective Groups in OrganicSynthesis”, Wiley-Interscience, 1991.

Compounds of this invention can be isolated in association with solventmolecules by crystallization from evaporation of an appropriate solvent.The pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts of the compounds offormula II, which contain a basic center, may be prepared in aconventional manner. For example, a solution of the free base may betreated with a suitable acid, either neat or in a suitable solution, andthe resulting salt isolated either by filtration or by evaporation undervacuum of the reaction solvent. Pharmaceutically acceptable baseaddition salts may be obtained in an analogous manner by treating asolution of compound of formula I with a suitable base. Both types ofsalts may be formed or interconverted using ion-exchange resintechniques.

A final aspect of the present invention are intermediate compounds ofthe formula (Va)—wherein G′ is a phenyl—as used in the methodillustrated in Scheme 1, in particular for preparing compounds offormula (Ia).

In said formula (Va), PG is H, R², R³, R⁴, m and n are as defined above,with the proviso, though, that R² may not be a hydrogen.

Also intermediate compound of the formula (VIII) are comprised by thepresent invention,

wherein R¹ is a 1,1′-biphenyl or a tert-butyl phenyl moiety and R⁴ and nare as above defined.

When employed as pharmaceuticals, thiazolidine carboxamide derivativesof the present invention are typically administered in the form of apharmaceutical composition. Hence, pharmaceutical compositionscomprising a compound of formula (II) and a pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier, diluent or excipient therefore are also within the scope of thepresent invention. A person skilled in the art is aware of a wholevariety of such carrier, diluent or excipient compounds suitable toformulate a pharmaceutical composition.

The compounds of the invention, together with a conventionally employedadjuvant, carrier, diluent or excipient may be placed into the form ofpharmaceutical compositions and unit dosages thereof, and in such formmay be employed as solids, such as tablets or filled capsules, orliquids such as solutions, suspensions, emulsions, elixirs, or capsulesfilled with the same, all for oral use, or in the form of sterileinjectable solutions for parenteral (including subcutaneous use). Suchpharmaceutical compositions and unit dosage forms thereof may compriseingredients in conventional proportions, with or without additionalactive compounds or principles, and such unit dosage forms may containany suitable effective amount of the active ingredient commensurate withthe intended daily dosage range to be employed.

Pharmaceutical compositions containing thiazolidine carboxamidederivatives of this invention can be prepared in a manner well known inthe pharmaceutical art and comprise at least one active compound.Generally, the compounds of this invention are administered in apharmaceutically effective amount. The amount of the compound actuallyadministered will typically be determined by a physician, in the lightof the relevant circumstances, including the condition to be treated,the chosen route of administration, the actual compound administered,the age, weight, and response of the individual patient, the severity ofthe patient's symptoms, and the like.

The pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention can beadministered by a variety of routes including oral, rectal, transdermal,subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, and intranasal. Thecompositions for oral administration can take the form of bulk liquidsolutions or suspensions, or bulk powders. More commonly, however, thecompositions are presented in unit dosage forms to facilitate accuratedosing. The term “unit dosage forms” refers to physically discrete unitssuitable as unitary dosages for human subjects and other mammals, eachunit containing a predetermined quantity of active material calculatedto produce the desired therapeutic effect, in association with asuitable pharmaceutical excipient. Typical unit dosage forms includeprefilled, premeasured ampoules or syringes of the liquid compositionsor pills, tablets, capsules or the like in the case of solidcompositions. In such compositions, the thiazolidine carboxamidederivative is usually a minor component (from about 0.1 to about 50% byweight or preferably from about 1 to about 40% by weight) with theremainder being various vehicles or carriers and processing aids helpfulfor forming the desired dosing form.

Liquid forms suitable for oral administration may include a suitableaqueous or nonaqueous vehicle with buffers, suspending and dispensingagents, colorants, flavors and the like. Solid forms may include, forexample, any of the following ingredients, or compounds of a similarnature: a binder such as microcrystalline cellulose, gum tragacanth orgelatine; an excipient such as starch or lactose, a disintegrating agentsuch as alginic acid, Primogel, or corn starch; a lubricant such asmagnesium stearate; a glidant such as colloidal silicon dioxide; asweetening agent such as sucrose or saccharin; or a flavoring agent suchas pepper-mint, methyl salicylate, or orange flavoring.

Injectable compositions are typically based upon injectable sterilesaline or phosphate-buffered saline or other injectable carriers knownin the art. As above mentioned, the thiazolidine carboxamide derivativesof formula (I) in such compositions is typically a minor component,frequently ranging between 0.05 to 10% by weight with the remainderbeing the injectable carrier and the like.

The above described components for orally administered or injectablecompositions are merely representative. Further materials as well asprocessing techniques and the like are set out in Part 8 of Remington'sPharmaceutical Sciences, 17^(th) Edition, 1985, Marck PublishingCompany, Easton, Pa., which is incorporated herein be reference.

The compounds of this invention can also be administered in sustainedrelease forms or from sustained release drug delivery systems. Adescription of representative sustained release materials can also befound in the incorporated materials in Remington's PharmaceuticalSciences.

In the following the present invention shall be illustrated by means ofsome examples which are not construed to be viewed as limiting the scopeof the invention. The following abbreviations are hereinafter used inthe accompanying examples: min (minute), hr (hour), g (gram), mmol(millimole), m.p. (melting point), eq (equivalents), ml (milliliter), μl(microliters), ACN (acetonitrile), Boc (butoxycarbonyl), Cbz(carboxybenzyl), CDCl₃ (deuterated chloroform), cHex (cyclohexanes), dba(dibenzylidene acetone), DCM (dichloromethane), DEAD(diethylazodicarboxylate, DIC (diisopropyl carbodiimide), DIEA(diisopropyl ethylamine), DMAP (4-dimethylaminopyridine), DMF(dimethylform-amide), DMSO (dimethylsulfoxide), DMSO-d₆ (deuterateddimethylsulfoxide), EDC (1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimidehydrochloride), EtOAc (ethyl acetate), Et₂O (diethyl ether), Fmoc(9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl), HOBt (1-hydroxybenzotriazole), K₂CO₃(potassium carbonate), MgSO₄ (magnesium sulfate), MsCl (methylsulfonylchloride), MTBE (tert-butyl methyl ether), NaH (sodium hydride), NaHCO₃(sodium bicarbonate), nBuLi (n-butyllithium), PCC (pyridiniumchlorochromate), PetEther (petroleum ether), QCl (tetrabutylammoniumchloride), rt (room temperature), TBTU(O-benzotriazolyl-N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyluronium-tetrafluoroborate), TEA(triethyl amine), TFA (trifluoroacetic acid), THF (tetrahydrofuran),TMOF (triethylorthoformate), TMAD(N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylazodicarboxamide), TosCl (toluenesulfonylchloride).

EXAMPLES Intermediate 1: Preparation of Amines of General Formula(IV)/(IV*); e.g., (R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methanamine

Method A: a) Protocol for the formation of the imine intermediates(XVIII)/(XVIII*); e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-2-{[(E)-2-pyridinylmethylidene]amino}-1-butanol

Anhydrous MgSO₄ (50 g, 415 mmol, 4.15 eq) and a substituted aryl orheteroaryl carboxaldehyde, e.g. 2-pyridinecarboxaldehyde (9.5 ml, 100mmol, 1 eq), were added to a solution of(R)-(−)-2-amino-3-methyl-1-butanol (10.32 g, 100 mmol) in dry DCM (150ml) at 0° C. The reaction was followed by LC/MS. The mixture was stirredat this temperature for 2 h 25. MgSO₄ was filtered off and the DCMremoved by evaporation to give the desired product (XVIII*), e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-2-{[(E)-2-pyridinylmethylidene]amino}-1-butanol as ayellowish oil (19.23 g, quantitative yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO); Major tautomer: 0.88 (m, 6H, CH(CH₃)₂); 1.88 (m,1H, CH(CH₃)₂); 3.03 (m, 2H); 3.66 (m, 1H); 4.51 (t, J=6.0 Hz, 1H); 7.43(m, 1H); 7.85 (m, 1H); 7.96 (m, 1H); 8.23 (s, 1H); 8.62 (m, 1H).M⁺(ESI⁺): 193.

b) Protocol for the silylation of intermediates (XVIII)/(XVIII*); e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-N—[(E)-2-pyridinylmethylidene]-1-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]-2-butanamine

The imine (XVIII*) resulting from the precedent step, e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-2-{[(E)-2-pyridinylmethylidene]amino}-1-butanol (100 mmol)was dissolved in dry DCM (100 ml). TEA (15.3 ml, 110 mmol, 1.1 eq) andchlorotrimethylsilane (13.9 ml, 110 mmol, 1.1 eq) was added to thestirred solution. The reaction was followed by LC/MS. After 2 h 30, thereaction was complete. The solvent was removed in vacuo and the residuewas taken up in 500 ml Et₂O-Cyclohexane (1:1) and the solid phase wasfiltered off. The organic solution was concentrated in vacuo to give thedesired product, e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-N—[(E)-2-pyridinylmethylidene]-1-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]-2-butanamineas a yellowish oil (25.5 g, 96%).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 0.0 (s, 9H, Si(CH₃)₃); 0.89 (s, 6H, CH(CH₃)₂);1.93 (m, 1H, CH(CH₃)₂); 3.03 (m, 1H); 3.63 (m, 1H); 3.83 (m, 1H); 7.25(m, 1H); 7.68 (m, 1H); 8.0 (m, 1H); 8.26 (s, 1H); 8.60 (m, 1H).M⁺(ESI⁺): 265.

c) Asymmetric addition of Grignard reagents; e.g.,(2R)-3-methyl-2-{[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]amino}-1-butanol(XX)/(XX*)

The silylated imine from the previous step, e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-N—[(E)-2-pyridinylmethylidene]-1-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]-2-butanaminewas dissolved in dry THF (500 ml) and the solution was cooled down to−78° C. A 1 M solution of phenylmagnesiumbromide in THF (200 ml, 200mmol, 2 eq) was added dropwise while the mixture was stirred by amagnetic bar. The mixture was further stirred 2 hours at −78° C. Thetemperature was then slowly increased up to room temperature overnight.A sample of the reaction mixture was quenched with aqueous NaHCO₃ andanalysed by LC-MS to detect the O-silylated products. After one night,the mixture was quenched with HCl 1M (250 ml) and the mixture wasstirred at room temperature until the desilylation was complete (after 1h, LC/MS analysis). The aqueous phase was further acidified with theaddition of 5M HCl solution (20 ml). The aqueous phase was washed with300 ml cyclohexane/Et₂O (2:1), then made basic with 60 ml NaOH 5M at 0°C., and the organic products were extracted with Et₂O, dried (MgSO₄) andconcentrated to give the desired product (XX*), e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-2-{[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]amino}-1-butanol as ayellowish oil (22.9 g, 85% yield, d.e.=99%, determined by ¹H NMR).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 0.81 (m, 6H, CH(CH₃)₂); 1.76 (m, 1H, CH(CH₃)₂);2.29 (m, 1H); 2.72 (br s, 2H); 3.23-3.60 (m, 2H, CH₂OH); 4.87 (d, 1H,NCHAr₂); 6.97 (m, 2H, H arom.); 7.17 (m, 5H, H arom.); 7.41 (m, 1H, Harom.); 8.42 (s, 1H, H arom. major diastereomer, 99.5%), 8.70 (s, 1H, Harom. minor diastereomer, 0.5%). M⁺(ESI⁺): 271.

d) Protocol for the deprotection of the amines (XX)/(XX*); e.g.,(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methanamine

To a solution of the secondary amines (XX)/(XX*) resulting from thepreceding step, e.g.(2R)-3-methyl-2-{[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]amino}-1-butanol (2.9 g,10.73 mmol) in 25 ml MeOH/THF (9/1) was added methylamine 40% in water(10.2 ml, 118 nmol, 11 eq). Aqueous periodic acid (8.3 g in 25 ml ofwater) was added slowly at 0° C. to the stirring solution. This thicksolution was allowed to stir at room temperature overnight. The reactionwas followed by LC/MS. After one night, water (25 ml) was added, themixture was filtered and the amine extracted 3 times with Et₂O. Theorganic phase was then dried with MgSO₄ and evaporated to give thedesired products (IV)/(IV*), e.g. (R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methanamine asa yellowish oil (2.1 g, 95% yield). This crude primary amine was usedwithout further purification.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.19 (br s, 2H, NH₂); 5.26 (m, 1H, NCHAr₂);7.15-7.44 (m, 7H, H arom.); 7.62 (m, 111, H arom.); 8.58 (s, 1H, Harom.). M⁺(ESI⁺): 185.

Method B: a) Protocol for the formation of the aldehyde intermediates(XVI*); e.g., 5-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde(Scheme 8)

A mixture of 3-hydroxy-6-methylpyridine (57.5 g, 0.529 mol),4-tosylchloride (110 g, 0.58 mol) and TEA (100 mL) in dry DMF (400 mL)was heated at 110° C. under N₂ for 16 h. The reaction mixture was cooleddown to RT, diluted with water (3 L). The resulting precipitate wasfiltered, washed and dried to give crude[3-(4-tosyloxy)]-6-methylpyridine (102 g, 75%) as a white solid. Thecrude product was used in next reaction without any purification.

To a solution of [3-(4-tosyloxy)]-6-methylpyridine (100 g, 0.38 mol) indry CHCl₃ (2 L) was added MCPBA (50% w/w, 200 g, 0.57 mol) in oneportion. The reaction mixture was refluxed for 4 h, cooled to RT andfiltered off the solid. The filtrate was washed with 20% Na₂CO₃ solution(3×1 L), dried over Na₂SO₄ and concentrated to give6-methyl-3-(4-tosyloxy)pyridine-N-oxide (85 g, 80%) as a solid. Thecrude product was used in the next step without further purification.

To a solution of acetic anhydride (500 mL) heated at 90° C., was added6-methyl-3-(4-tosyloxy)pyridine-N-oxide (80 g) in small portions over aperiod of 2 h. The reaction mixture was refluxed for 16 h under N₂.Acetic anhydride was distilled off. The resulting crude product waspurified by column chromatography over silica gel (gradient petroleumether/CH₂Cl₂, 7:3 to 3:7) to give 3-tosyloxy-6-acetoxymethylpyridine (55g, 57%) as a liquid.

A mixture of 3-tosyloxy-6-acetoxymethylpyridine (50 g, 0.148 mol) andNaOH (25 g, 0.62 mol) in 150 mL of water was refluxed for 15 h. Thereaction mixture was cooled to RT and neutralized with con. HCl. Thesolvent was evaporated under vacuum affording a solid residue, which wassuspended in ethyl acetate (750 mL) and heated to 60° C. for 30 min.with stirring. The suspended material was filtered off and the filtratewas concentrated to give 5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethylpyridine (15 g, 80%)as a pale yellow solid. It was used in next step without furtherpurification.

A mixture of 5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethylpyridine (14 g) and MnO₂ (100 g)in isopropylalcohol (600 mL) was stirred under N₂ for 20 h. The reactionmixture was filtered and filtrate concentrated under vacuum affording acrude product as a solid (12 g). It was suspended inacetone/acetonitrile (25 mL each) and the solid residue was filteredoff. It was washed with cold acetone/acetonitrile 1:1 mixture to givepure 5-hydroxypyridine-2-carboxaldehyde (3 g) as a solid.

A mixture of the above 5-hydroxypyridin-2-carboxaldehyde (4 g, 0.032mol), K₂CO₃ (14 g, 0.097 mol) in THF (100 mL) was heated at 60° C. for 2h under N₂. 2-Dimethylaminoethylchloride was freshly prepared from thecorresponding HCl salt (9.4 g, 0.06 mol) to which was added drop-wise20% NaOH solution (2 equivalent) at 0° C. it was then added drop-wise tothe above reaction mixture at 60° C. The reaction mixture was allowed tostir 6 h at the same temperature. Upon completion, the reaction mixturewas cooled down to RT, the solid was filtered off and the filtrate wasconcentrated under vacuum to give expected crude product. It was thenpurified by column chromatography over silica gel (gradient methanol inchloroform from 0.1% to 2%) to give the desired aldehyde (XVI*), e.g.,5-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde (3.25 g, 51%) as acolorless liquid.

b) Protocol for the preparation of the amines (IV and IV*); e.g.,[2-({6-[(R)-amino(phenyl)methyl]pyridin-3-yl}oxy)ethyl]dimethylamine

Steps a) to d) described in method A were applied to the aldehyde (XVI*)from the previous step, e.g., 5-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde, affording the desired amine (IV, IV*),e.g.,[2-({6-[(R)-amino(phenyl)methyl]pyridin-3-yl}oxy)ethyl]dimethylamine(165 mg, 96% yield). This crude primary amine was used without furtherpurification.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 271.

Intermediate 2: Preparation of racemic amines of general formula (IV);e.g., [(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]amine;[(2-chloropyridin-4-yl)(phenyl)methyl]amine;5-[amino(phenyl)methyl]pyridin-2-ol;5-[amino(phenyl)-methyl]-N,N-dimethylpyridin-2-amine;[(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl)((phenyl)methyl]amine. Method A: a) Protocolfor the formation of the ketone intermediates (XIX*); e.g.,(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone

A carboxylic acid, e.g., 6-Chloronicotinic acid (3.151 g, 20 mmol) wasdissolved in dry DCM. The mixture was cooled down to 0° C. Oxalylchloride (2.58 mL, 30 mmol) followed by DMF (77 μL) were added. Themixture was stirred at 0° C. for 1 h 30, then at RT overnight. Thesolvents were evaporated. The crude product was dissolved in toluene andthe solvents were evaporated again to give the corresponding acidchloride (XVIII*), e.g., 6-chloronicotinoyl chloride (2.886 g, 82%yield). It was dissolved in benzene (50 mL) and AlCl₃ (5.248 g, 39.4mmol) was added. The mixture was stirred overnight at 80° C. Aftercooling down to RT, water was added. The two phases were separated andthe aqueous layer was extracted with two portions of ethyl acetate.Combined organic layers were washed with brine and dried over MgSO₄,filtrated and concentrated to give the desired product (XIX*), e.g.,(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone as a yellowish oil (3.884 g, 67%yield). It was used in the next step without further purification.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 7.41-7.57 (m, 3H, H arom.); 7.64 (m, 1H, Harom.); 7.73-7.83 (m, 2H, H arom.); 8.08 (dd, J=3.0, 9.0 Hz, 1H, Hpyridine.); 8.76 (d, J=3.0 Hz, 1H, H pyridine). M⁺(ESI⁺): 218.

b) Protocol for the formation of the oxime intermediates (XXXXIII*);e.g., (6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone oxime

The ketone issued from the precedent step (XIX*), e.g.,(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone (435 mg, 2 mmol), was dissolvedin EtOH (40 mL). DIEA (1.027 mL, 6 mmol) and hydroxylamine hydrochloride(417 mg; 6 mmol) were added. The mixture was heated under refluxovernight. The solvents were removed. The resulting crude mixture wasdissolved in ethyl acetate (40 mL) and was washed with three portions ofwater. The organic layer was dried over magnesium sulfate, filtrated andevaporated to give the desired product (XXXXIII*), e.g.,(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone oxime (413 mg, 89% yield). Itwas used in the next step without further purification.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 7.22-7.52 (m, 6H, H arom.); 7.75 (m, 1H, Harom.); 8.45 (d, J=3.0 Hz, 1H, H pyridine). M⁺(ESI⁺): 233. M⁻(ESI⁻):231.

c) Protocol for the reduction of the oxime into the primary amineintermediates (IV); e.g., [(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]amine

The oxime obtained from the precedent step (XIX*), e.g.,(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone oxime (368 mg, 1.58 mmol) wasdissolved in glacial acetic acid (20 mL). Metallic Zn (1.034 g, 15.8mmol) was added in portions at RT. The reaction was followed by LC-MS.After a complete reduction of the oxime functionality, the reactionmixture was filtered and the solvents were evaporated. The crude residuewas dissolved in DCM and was washed with three portions of NaHCO₃ sat.It was then dried over MgSO₄, filtrated and evaporated. It was furtherpurified by column chromatography over silica gel (DCM/MeOH 20:1 with 2%of NH₄OH) to give the desired product (IV), e.g.,[(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]amine (188 mg, 54% yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 5.18 (s, 1H, CHNH₂); 7.14-7.32 (m, 6H, Harom.); 7.61 (dd, J=3.0, 6.0 Hz, 1H, H pyridine.); 8.37 (d, J=3.0 Hz,1H, H pyridine). M⁺(ESI⁺): 219.

Method B: a) Protocol for the aromatic substitution of intermediates(XIX*); e.g., (6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone with sodiumalcolate, affording ketone intermediates (XIX*) e.g.,(6-tert-butoxypyridine-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone

-   b) In a 5 mL flask for microwave reaction were added NaH 55-65% in    oil (192 mg, 4.4 mmol) and dry THF (2 mL), followed by the alcohol,    e.g., t-butanol. The mixture was heated 30 min at 60° C.    Intermediates (XIX*); e.g., (6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)-methanone    (435 mg, 2 mmol) was dissolved in dry THF (2 mL) and added to the    alcoholate solution prepared previously. This mixture was heated 40    min under microwave at 100° C. As the reaction was complete, water    and ethyl acetate were added. The phases were separated and the    aqueous phase was extracted with two portions of ethyl acetate.    Combined organic layers were dried over MgSO₄, filtrated and    evaporated affording the expected product (XIX*), e.g.,    (6-tert-butoxypyridine-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone (191 mg, 37% yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.62 (s, 9H, tBu); 6.72 (d, J=6.0 Hz, 1H, Harom.); 7.42-7.53 (m, 2H, H arom.); 7.58 (m, 1H, H arom.); 7.71-7.80 (m,2H, H arom.); 8.05 (dd, J=3.0, 9.0 Hz, 1H, H pyridine.); 8.37 (d, J=3.0Hz, 1H, H pyridine). [M-tBu+H]⁺(ESI⁺): 200. M⁻(ESI⁻): 255.

c) Protocol for the preparation of the primary amine intermediates (IV);e.g., 5-[amino(phenyl)methyl]pyridin-2-ol

-   -   The protocol described in Method A step b) and c) was applied to        the intermediate (XIX*); e.g.        (6-tert-butoxypyridine-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone, affording the        desired amine (IV), e.g., 5-[amino(phenyl)methyl]pyridin-2-ol        (160 mg, quantitative yield). During the reduction step with Zn        in AcOH, the t-butyl group has been cleaved, affording directly        the corresponding pyridin-2-ol. This crude primary amine was        used without further purification.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 201.

Method C: d) Protocol for the aromatic substitution of intermediates(XIX*); e.g., (6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone with amine,affording ketone intermediates (XLX*); e.g.,(6-N,N-dimethylaminopyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone

In a 5 mL flask for microwave reaction, intermediates (XIX*); e.g.,(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone (217 mg, 1 mmol) was addedtogether with dry THF (1.5 mL) and 2M solution of dimethylamine in THF(3 mL, 6 eq). This mixture was heated 120 min under microwave at 180° C.As the reaction was complete, water was added. The aqueous solution wasbasified with NaOH 5M to pH 8. It was then extracted with three portionsof ethyl acetate. Combined organic phases were dried over MgSO₄,filtrated and evaporated, affording the expected product (XXXXVI), e.g.,(6-N,N-dimethylaminopyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone (88 mg, 39% yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 3.19 (s, 6H, NMe₂); 6.56 (d, J=9.0 Hz, 1H, Harom.); 7.40-7.49 (m, 2H, H arom.); 7.53 (m, 1H, H arom.); 7.68-7.76 (m,2H, H arom.); 8.04 (dd, J=3.0, 9.0 Hz, 1H, H pyridine.); 8.60 (d, J=3.0Hz, 1H, H pyridine). M⁺(ESI⁺): 227.

e) Protocol for the preparation of the primary amine intermediates (IV);e.g., 5-[amino(phenyl)methyl]-N,N-dimethylpyridin-2-amine

-   -   The protocol described in Method A step b) and c) was applied to        the intermediate (XXXXVI); e.g.,        (6-N,N-dimethylaminopyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methanone, affording        the desired amine (IV), e.g.,        5-[amino(phenyl)methyl]-N,N-dimethylpyridin-2-amine (136 mg, 83%        yield). This crude primary amine was used without further        purification.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.13 (br s, 2H, NH₂); 2.99 (s, 6H, NMe₂); 5.06(s, 1H, CHNH₂), 6.41 (d, J=9.0 Hz, 1H, H arom.); 7.10-7.41 (m, 6H, Harom.); 8.09 (d, J=3.0 Hz, 1H, H pyridine). M⁺(ESI⁺): 228.

Method D: a) Protocol for boc protection of the amino ketoneintermediates (XIX*); e.g., phenyl(piperidin-4-yl)methanone

b) The amino ketone intermediate XIX*, e.g.phenyl(piperidin-4-yl)methanone hydrochloride (1.129 g, 5 mmol) wassuspended in DCM (25 mL). DIEA (0.94 mL, 5.5 mmol) was added and theresulting inhomogeneous mixture was cooled down to 0° C. Di-tert-butyldicarbonate (1.20 g, 5.5 mmol) was added as a solid. The mixture wasstirred 5 min at 0° C. and 1 h at RT. As the reaction was complete, itwas washed with HCl 1N aqueous solution then with NaHCO₃ sat, brine anddried over MgSO₄. After filtration and evaporation, the expected product(XIX*), e.g., tert-butyl 4-benzylpiperidine-1-carboxylate (1.333 g, 92%yield) was obtained as a white solid.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.44 (s, 9H, Boc); 1.59-1.76 (m, 2H); 1.76-1.88(m, 2H), 2.87 (m, 2H); 3.38 (m, 1H); 4.14 (m, 2H); 7.41-7.49 (m, 2H, Harom.); 7.55 (m, 1H, H arom.); 7.88-7.95 (m, 2H, H arom.). [M-tBu+H]⁺(ESI⁺): 234. M⁻(ESI⁻): 288.

c) Protocol for formation of the oxime intermediate (XXXXIII*); e.g.,tert-butyl 4-[(Z)-(hydroxyimino)(phenyl)methyl]piperidine-1-carboxylate

The procedure described in the method A step b) was followed, startingfrom intermediate XVIII*, e.g., tert-butyl4-benzylpiperidine-1-carboxylate (1.0 g, 3.46 mmol), affording thedesired product XXXXIII*, e.g., tert-butyl4-[(Z)-(hydroxyimino)(phenyl)methyl]piperidine-1-carboxylate in 94%yield and 97% HPLC purity. It was used in the next step without furtherpurification.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.42 (s, 9H, Boc); 1.35-1.58 (m, 2H); 1.58-1.84(m, 2H), 2.62 (m, 1H, major isomer), 2.63-2.82 (m, 2H); 3.39 (m, 1H,minor isomer); 4.12 (m, 2H); 7.20-7.51 (m, 5H, H arom.). [M-tBu+H]⁺(ESI⁺): 249. M⁻(ESI⁻): 303.

d) Protocol for the reduction of the oxime intermediate XXXXIII* intothe primary amine (IV); e.g., tert-butyl4-[amino(phenyl)methyl]piperidine-1-carboxylate.

The oxime intermediate XXXXIII*, e.g., tert-butyl4-[(Z)-(hydroxyimino)phenyl)methyl]piperidine-1-carboxylate, wasdissolved in MeOH. Pd/C (10%) was added and the mixture was placed under30 bar of H₂ overnight. As the reduction was complete, the solution wasfiltered through celite and the solvents were evaporated, affording thecrude the primary amine. It was dissolved in Et₂O and extracted with 3portions of HCl 1N. Combined acidic fractions were washed with oneportion of Et₂O. It was then basified with NaOH 5N. The basic aqueousphase was extracted with 3 portions of ether. Combined organic phaseswere dried over MgSO₄, filtrated and evaporated, affording the primaryamine IV, e.g., tert-butyl4-[amino(phenyl)methyl]piperidine-1-carboxylate (729 mg, 68% yield),which was used in the next step without further purification.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 0.93-1.30 (m, 2H); 1.42 (s, 9H, Boc); 1.62 (m,1H); 1.82-1.98 (m, 2H); 2.59 (m, 2H), 3.61 (d, J=9.0 Hz, 1H); 4.10 (m,2H); 7.19-7.35 (m, 5H, H arom.). M⁺(ESI⁺): 291.

e) Protocol for the reduction of boc group into tertiary amine (XXXII);e.g., 1-(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl)-1-phenylmethanamine

Intermediate XXXI, e.g. tert-butyl4-[amino(phenyl)methyl]piperidine-1-carboxylate (1.0 g, 3.44 mmol) wasdissolved in dry THF (50 mL). LiAlH₄ (261 mg, 6.89 mmol) was added inportions. The reaction was heated under reflux overnight. As thereaction was completed, it was quenched with dropwise addition of water(5 mL), followed by NaOH 1N (5 mL) and H2O (5 mL). The suspension thusobtained was extracted with ethyl acetate, dried over MgSO₄ andevaporated, affording the crude product. It was further purified byflash chromatography (DCM/MeOH 20:1 with 2% NH₄OH) to give the tertiaryamine XXXII, e.g., 1-(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl)-1-phenylmethanamine (444.6mg, 63% yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.12-1.53 (m, 4H); 1.62 (br s, 2H, NH₂); 1.77(m, 1H); 1.83-2.03 (m, 2H); 2.22 (s, 3H, CH₃); 2.75 (m, 1H), 2.91 (m,1H), 3.60 (d, J=6.0 Hz, 1H); 7.18-7.35 (m, 5H, H arom.). M⁺(ESI⁺): 204.

f) Enantiomers separation of intermediate (XXXII); e.g.,1-(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl)-1-phenylmethanamine, by chromatography onchiral support

Both enantiomer of intermediate XXXII, e.g. 1-(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl)1-phenylmethanamine (5.00 g), were separated on chiral column(Chiralcell OD-H, 250 mm×20 mm; 5 μm granulometry, Chiral TechnologiesEurope). Divided in 35 injections, enantiomer (R) (2.344 g, r.t.=5.897min) and enantiomer (S) (2.552 g, r.t.=7.898 min) were isolated bothwith e.e. >99.8% (determined on analytical Chiralcell OD-H, 250×4.6 mm,5 μm granulometry, Chiral Technologies Europe) and 98% yield. Absoluteconfiguration of each enantiomer was established by correlation withbiological activity of the final products, knowing that products XXXIIbearing (S)-2-substituted benzylamine were more active than the onebearing (R)-2-substituted benzylamine.

1-(2-chloropyridin-4-yl)-1-phenylmethanamine

Following the general Method A, starting from 2-chloroisonicotinic acid,the title compound was obtained in 62% yield.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.69 (s, 2H, NH₂); 5.08 (s, 1H, CHNH₂);7.12-7.31 (m, 6H, H arom.); 7.34 (br s, 1H, H pyridine.); 8.20 (d, J=6.0Hz, 1H, H pyridine). M⁺(ESI⁺): 219.

M⁻(ESI⁻): 217.

Intermediate 3: Preparation of amino alcohols of general formula (XXVI);e.g., 3-amino-3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(2-fluorophenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(2-methylphenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(4-methylphenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(2,3-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(4-methylphenyl)-1-propanol;3-amino-3-(4-methoxyphenyl-1-propanol;3-Amino-3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1-propanol Method A:

To a suspension of sodium borohydride (0.585 g, 15.47 mmol) in dry THF(20 ml) was added the corresponding amino acid (XXV), e.g.,3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-β-alanine (1.25 g, 6.45 mmol) in dry THF (20 ml).The reaction mixture was stirred under inert atmosphere and cooled downto zero degree in an ice bath. A solution of iodine (1.64 g, 6.45 mmol)dissolved in dry THF (10 ml) was added dropwise over a period of 30 minresulting in a vigorous evolution of hydrogen. After the addition ofiodine was completed and gas evolution ceased, the flask was heated toreflux for 18 hours and then cooled to room temperature, methanol (100ml) was added cautiously until the mixture became clear. After stirringfurther 30 min, the solvent were removed, yielding a white paste whichwas dissolved by addition of 150 ml of 20% aqueous KOH. The solution wasstirred for 4 h and extracted with DCM (3×150 ml). The organic layerwere dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to give thedesired aminoalcohol compounds (XXVI), e.g.,3-amino-3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1-propanol as a yellowish oil (0.85 g,74%).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): 1.82 (m, 1H), 2.00 (m, 1H), 2.27 (s, 3H), 2.30(s, 3H), 3.50 (brs, 2H), 3.78 (m, 2H), 4.48 (m, 1H), 6.95 (s, 1H), 7.02(d, J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 7.34 (d, J=7.9 Hz, 1H)

Method B:

A solution of lithium aluminium hydride (2.5 ml of a 1 M solution inTHF) was slowly added to the amino acid (XXV), e.g.,3-(2-fluorophenyl)-β-alanine (272 mg, 1.65 mmol) in THF (4 ml) at 0° C.The mixture was stirred at r.t. for 8 h and quenched with 0.6 ml water,0.6 ml 1N NaOH and 0.6 ml water. The suspension thus obtained wasfiltered, dried with a Na₂SO₄ cartridge and concentrated under reducedpressure. This crude product (XXVI), e.g.,3-amino-3-(2-fluorophenyl)-1-propanol (131 mg, 69%) was directly engagedin the following step.

Method C: Preparation of amines of general formula (IV*)/IV′* byenzymatic resolution; e.g. (S)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanoland (R)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol

a) Enzymatic Resolution:

Ethyl-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanoate (5.3 g, 23 mmol) wassuspended in a phosphate buffer (15 ml, pH=8.2) and gently stirredbefore the addition of lipase Amano PS (313 mg). The mixture was thenstirred at room temperature and the pH maintained at 8.2 by addition ofNaOH 1N when necessary. The saponification was monitored by chiral HPLC(column CHIRALPAK AD; hexane/ISOH/TEA 95:5:0.1) and the reaction wasstopped just before the complete consumption of the S enantiomer. Themixture was filtered and NaOH 1N was added to the filtrate. Which wasthen extracted twice with DCM. Combined organic layer were washed withbrine, dried over magnesium sulfate, filtrated and concentrated to give2.72 g of the pure R-ethyl-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanoate(chiral HPLC: R=9.8 nm; ee=99%); ¹H-RMN (CDCl₃): 7.40 (m, 1H); 6.80 (m,2H); 4.60 (m, 1H); 4.10 (m, 2H); 1.93 (m, 2H); 1.25 (m, 3H)). Theaqueous phase was lyophilized and redissolved in HCl 1N. It was filteredthrough a SCX cartridge, suspended in MeOH/ACN 3:1, filtered andconcentrated to give the pureS-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanoic acid as a nice white powder(¹H-RMN (D₂O): 7.43 (q, 1H); 7.00 (m, 2H); 4.93 (s, 1H); 3.25 (s, 2H);3.00 (m, 2H). The enantiomeric purity of the acid was controlled bypreparation of the methyl ester derivative with TMS-diazomethane andchiral HPLC analysis using a CHIRALCEL OD-H column with hexane/ISOH/TEA95:5:0.1 as eluant. Rt (S enantiomer)=10.0 min; Rt (R enantiomer)=9.4min. ee of the above described S-enantiomer=95.5%.

b) Reduction to the Alcohol

(S)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol

(S)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol was obtained following thegeneral method C as described for intermediate 2 from(S)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanoic acid.

¹H NMR (CDCl₃): 7.30 (m, 1H); 6.83 (m, 2H); 4.37 (m, 1H); 3.82 (m, 2H);1.90 (m, 4H).

(R)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol

(R)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol was obtained following thegeneral method B as described for intermediate 2 from Ethyl(R)-3-amino-3-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-1-propanoate Method D:

The amino acid (XXV), e.g., 3-(4-fluorophenyl)-β-alanine (1 eq.) wasdissolved in dry THF (30 vol.) and BH₃.DMS (2.5 eq) was added. Themixtures were then refluxed between 2 h 00 and 24 h 00 until totaldisappearance of the starting material by LC-MS analysis. The reactionwas then quenched by adding MeOH slowly and the mixture was stirred for1 h at room temperature. The solvents were then removed by evaporationand 15 ml of aq.KOH solution (20%) was added. The compounds were thenextracted with DCM and dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and the DCM removed.The yields of desired compounds (XXVI), e.g.,3-(4-fluorophenyl)-β-alanine, varied between 70 and 90%.

¹H NMR (360 MHz, DMSO); 1.53 (s, 9H), 3.62-3.63 (d, 2H), 5.33-5.44 (s,2H) 7.10 (t, 1H), 8.94 (s, 1H).

Similarly, using one of these three methods, and starting from theappropriate commercial amino acids (XXV), the following, related aminoalcohol intermediates (XXVI) were obtained:

3-amino-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol

Following the general Method B, starting from3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-β-alanine, the title compound was obtained in 60%yield.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): 1.71 (d, J=13.9 Hz, 1H), 2.20 (m, 1H), 3.12 (m,2H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 4.44 (d, J=10.5 Hz, 1H), 6.81 (m, 2H), 7.19 (m, 1H).

3-amino-3-(2-methylphenyl)-1-propanol

Following the general Method B, starting from3-(2-methylphenyl)-P-alanine, the title compound was obtained in 80%yield.

¹NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): 1.84 (m, 2H), 2.28 (s, 3H), 3.07 (brs, 2H), 3.77(m, 2H), 4.35 (dd, J=9.0 and 3.8 Hz, 1H), 7.08-7.38 (m, 4H).

3-amino-3-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-propanol

Following the general Method B, starting from3-(2-methoxyphenyl)-α-alanine, the title compound was obtained in 70%yield.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): 1.77 (m, 1H), 2.10 (m, 1H), 3.50 (brs, 2H),3.78 (m, 5H), 4.39 (dd, J=9.8 and 3.8 Hz, 1H), 6.86 (m, 2H), 7.20 (m,2H).

3-Amino-3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1-propanol

Following the general Method B, starting from3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-β-alanine, the title compound was obtained in 88%yield.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃): 1.82 (m, 1H), 2.00 (m, 1H), 2.27 (s, 3H), 2.30(s, 3H), 3.50 (brs, 2H), 3.78 (m, 2H), 4.48 (m, 1H), 6.95 (s, 1H), 7.02(d, J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 7.34 (d, J=7.9 Hz, 1H)

Intermediate 4: preparation of non-commercial secondary amines; e.g.,2-[(2-furylmethyl)amino]ethanol; methyl 3-(methylamino)propanoate MethodA:

An aldehyde, e.g., 2-furfuraldehyde (2 g, 20.82 mmol), and an amine,e.g., 2-aminoethanol, (1.65 g, 27.06 mmol) were poured together in amixture 1:1 TMOF:DCE (50 ml) and the reaction mixture was cooled down tozero degree. The reducing agent NaBH(OAc)₃ (6.18 g, 29.14 mmol) wasadded in 4 subsequent portions over a 5 min period, the reaction mixturewas allowed to gradually warm to room temperature and stirred for 16hours. The solvents was removed from the reaction in vacuo and theresidue was partitioned between dichloromethane (150 ml) and saturatedbicarbonate solution (50 ml). After separation, the organic layer waswashed with saturated bicarbonate solution (50 ml) and brine (50 ml).The combined organic layers were then dried over sodium sulphate,filtered and the solvent removed in vacuo. The desired secondary amines,e.g., 2-[(2-furylmethyl)amino]ethanol, were obtained as a yellowish oil(1.82 g, 62%).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.71 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 3.25 (s, CH₂N, 2H), 3.65(m, CH₂O, 2H), 4.98 (s, NH, 1H), 6.16 (s broad, CH═, 1H), 6.25 (s broad,CH═, 1H), 7.3 (s broad, CH═, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 142.5; M⁻(ESI⁻): 140.1.

Method B:

Methyl acrylate (3.1 g, 1 eq, 36 mmol) was dissolved in CHCl₃ (50 ml)and methyl amine (1.68 g, 1.5 eq, 56 mmol) was added in one portion. Thereaction mixture was stirred and heated to 40° C. for 12 h. The solventsevaporated at the pump to give a yellowish oil, methyl3-(methylamino)propanoate (3.6 g, 85.3% yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.50 (s, CH₃N, 3H), 2.51 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 2.85(m, CH₂C(O), 2H), 3.69 (s, CH₃O, 3H).

Intermediate 5: Preparation of non-commercial sulfonyl chlorides (VI)and/or sulfonic acids (X); e.g., 4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonylchloride; 4′-chloro[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride;3′-chloro[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride;3′-methyl[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride;2′-chloro[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride;2′-methyl[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride;4′-methyl[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride;4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride;4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride; sodium4-(3-pyridinyl)benzenesulfonate.

Method A: a) 4-methoxyphenylboronic acid

To a solution of 4-bromoanisole (100 g, 0.53 mol) in dry THF (1 L), BuLi(494 ml-, 0.64 mol) was added slowly at −78° C. and stirred for 2 h. Tothis was added n-butylborate (147 g, 0.64 mol) slowly over 30 min andstirred at RT for 12 h. After completion, the reaction mixture wasquenched with water (400 ml), acidified with 1.5N HCl and filtered offthe solid precipitate. The solid was washed with water and dried to give4-methoxyphenylboronic acid (75 g, 92%).

b) 4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonic acid

A mixture of 4-methoxyphenylboronic acid (35 g, 0.23 mol),sodium-4-bromobenzene-sulfonate (50 g, 0.19 mol) and Na₂CO₃ (200 g) weretaken in toluene (1000 ml) and water (500 ml). To this was addedPd(PPh₃)₄ (11 g, 0.011 μmol) and the reaction mixture was refluxed for12 h under N₂ atmosphere. The reaction mixture was cooled, filtered offthe solid residue, washed with toluene and acidified with 6N HCl. Thesolid precipitate was filtered and dried to give4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonic acid (45 g, 88%).

c) 4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride

To a mixture of 4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonic acid (30 g, 0.1mmol) and thionylchloride (90 ml), DMF (1 ml) was added and the reactionmixture was refluxed for 6 h. Excess thionylchloride was distilled offand the crude was purified by column chromatography over silica gel(pet. ether/CHCl₃, 1:1) to give 4′-methoxy[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonylchloride (30 g, 95%).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 3.9 (CH₃O, s, 3H), 7.31 (AB system, J=6 Hz,2×H⁷, 2×H⁶), 7.95 (AB system, J=6 Hz, 2×H², 2×H³); M⁺(ESI⁺): 283.2;M⁻(ESI⁻): 281.6.

Similarly, using the appropriate commercial boronic acids andarylbromides, other related sulfonyl chlorides as mentioned above wereobtained.

Method B: a) isobutyl 4-bromobenzenesulfonate

4-bromobenzenesulfonyl chloride 850 g, 0.19 mol) was suspended in2-propanol (45 ml, 3 eq) and the slurry was cooled to less then 10° C.Pyridine (32 ml, 2 eq) was added in portions while maintaining thereaction temperature below 10° C. After reaction completion (ca. 3hours), 11 ml of glacial acetic acid followed by 250 ml of methyltert-butyl ether (MTBE) were added. The layers were separated and therich organic layer was successively washed with 125 ml of 1N aqueoushydrochloric acid and 150 ml of saturated sodium bicarbonate solutions.The rich MTBE solution was solvent exchanged into hexane (i.e., theaddition of hexane with concurrent distillation of MTBE) to inducecrystallisation. The crystal slurry was filtered, washed and dried invacuo at no more than 25° C., to give 48 g (87% yield) of isobutyl4-bromobenzenesulfonate.

b) 4-(isobutoxysulfonyl)phenylboronic acid

To a solution of isobutyl 4-bromobenzenesulfonate (56 g, 200 mmol) in280 ml of THF was added triisopropylborate (84 ml, 1.82 eq) and thereaction mixture was cooled to less than −65° C. To the cooled solution,n-butyllithium (144 ml, 0.9 eq, 1.07 M in hexanes) was slowly addedwhile maintaining the temperature below −65° C. The reaction mixture wasstirred for at least 0.5 hours and then was quenched with 1M sulfuricacid (200 ml). The reaction mixture was allowed to warm to ca. 20° C.The layers were separated and the rich organic layer containing 35 g(92% yield) of 4-(isobutoxysulfonyl)phenylboronic acid was used withoutfurther purification in the next step.

c) sodium 4-(3-pyridinyl)benzenesulfonate

The THF-Hexane-MTBE solution containing 23 g (93.3 mmol) of4-(isobutoxysulfonyl)phenylboronic acid was concentrated to aconcentration of ca. 7 ml/g. A portion of this solution containing ca.4.7 g (19 mmol, 0.26 eq) was added to a solution of 15.4 g (75 mmol) of3-iodopyridine dissolved in 100 ml of degassed tetrahydrofuran. To thissolution, tris(dibenzylidene acetone) dipalladium (0) (0.5 g, 0.6 mol %)and degassed aqueous sodium carbonate solution (300 ml, 3 eq) wereadded. The reaction mixture was heated to ca. 50° C. to initiate thecoupling reaction. During the reaction, Pd₂(dba)₃ (0.5 g per addition)and rich organic concentrate containing4-(isobutoxysulfonyl)phenylboronic acid (4.7 g, 0.26 eq per addition)were added in several portions until all the 3-iodopyridine wasconsumed. The reaction mixture was further heated at ca. 55° C. for anadditional 4 hours. The reaction mixture was filtered and washed withmethyl-tert-butyl ether. The pH of the product-rich aqueous solution wasadjusted to ca. 4, treated with trithiacyanuric acid (Ig) and filteredto remove Pd containing by-products. The pH of the product-rich aqueoussolution was adjusted to ca. 7 and was saturated with solid NaCl (118 g)to initiate the crystallisation of the product. The salted-out productwas dried in vacuo at less than 70° C. For recrystallization, the driedproduct was dissolved in 350 ml of 190 proof ethanol at ca. 75° C. Thesolution was filtered and concentrated to ca. 100 ml and cooled to ca.30° C. to initiate crystallization. About 200 ml of MTBE was added tomaximize the yield. The crystal slurry was filtered, washed and dried invacuo less than 70° C., to give 13.4 g (70% yield) of sodium4-(3-pyridinyl)benzenesulfonate.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO); 7.45 (AB system, J=6 Hz, 2×H³, 2×H⁴), 7.8 (dd,J=4 Hz, J=6 Hz, H¹⁰), 8.71 (dd, J=7 Hz, J=1 Hz, H¹¹), 8.81 (dd, J=6 Hz,J=1 Hz, H⁹), 9.19 (d, J=1 Hz, H⁷); M⁺(ESI⁺): 236.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 234.2.

Other related sulfonyl chlorides or sulfonyl acids as mentioned abovewere obtained such as benzeneacetic acid,4-(chlorosulfonyl)-alpha,alpha-dimethyl-, methyl ester

Method C: a) 2-methyl-2-phenyl propanoic methyl ester

The 2-methyl-2-phenyl propanoic acid (1.045 g, 6.36 mmol) was dissolvedin 10 mL od

Toluene/MeOH (1:1). Trimethylsilyl)diazomethane (9.54 mL in a solution2M in hexane, 19.08 mmol, 3 eq) was added. The reaction mixture wasstirred overnight at room temperature, then the solution was evaporatedunder vacuum et the residue dissolved in EtOAc. The organic layer waswashed with NaHCO₃ sat., NaCl sat., and dried over MgSO₄. The solventwas evaporated to give a colorless (1.1 g, quantitative yield).¹H-RMN(CDCl₃) δ 7.22-7.34 (m, 5H); 3.66 (s, 3H); 1.59 (s, 6H).

b) benzeneacetic acid, 4-(chlorosulfonyl)-alpha,alpha-dimethyl-, methylester

2-methyl-2-phenyl propanoic methyl ester (1.1 g, 6.17 mmol) wasdissolved in 20 mL of anhydrous DCM and the reaction mixture was cooleddown to −78° C. The chlorosulfonic acid (2.05 mL, 30.86 mmol, 5 eq)dissolved in 10 mL of anhydrous DCM was added dropwise during a periodof 2 h. The reaction mixture was stirred overnight at room temperature.The reaction was quenched by addition of ice and the product extractedwith DCM (3×50 mL) The organic layer was washed with NaCl sat, driedover MgSO₄, evaporated to give an oil (1 g, yield: 59%, HPLC purity:84%)

¹H-RMN (CH₂Cl₂) δ 7.99 (d, J=9.1, 2H); 7.58 (d, J=8.7, 2H); 3.69 (s,3H); 1.56 (s, 6H). MS (ESI−): 275.15

Intermediate 6: Thiazolidine intermediates of general formula (V); e.g.tert-butyl2-({[(1S3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate

Commercial 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(III) (1 g, 4.29 mmol) was dissolved in dry THF (50 ml). A mechanicalstirrer was placed in the flask and the solution stirred vigorously. Thesolution was cooled down to −25° C. and N-methyl morpholine (1.084 g,10.72 mmol) was added in dry THF (5 ml). A solution ofisobutyl-chloroformate (0.615 g, 4.5 mmol) in dry THF (10 ml) was thenadded dropwise over a period of 10 minutes with continued vigorousstirring, the reaction's exotherm being maintained at the optimaltemperature of −25° C. by the use of a dry-acetone bath. After thecomplete addition of the chloroformate, the reaction mixture was stirredat −25° C. for 30 min after which time an amine (IV)/(IV*), e.g.,(3S)-3-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol (0.778 g, 5.14 mmol) was addeddrop-wise over a period of 10 min. The reaction mixture was allowed togradually warm to room temperature and stirred overnight. The solventwas removed and the residue re-dissolved in ethyl acetate (150 ml). Theorganic layer was washed subsequently with a saturated solution ofammonium chloride (100 ml), saturated bicarbonate (100 ml) and brine(100 ml). Organics then dried with magnesium sulfate and concentrated invacuo. The product (V), e.g., tert-butyl2-({[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenyl-propyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate,was finally obtained as a white foam (1.5 g, 95%). The antipodalintermediate, tert-butyl2-({[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenyl-propyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate,as well as the racemic inter-mediate, tert-butyl2-({[3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylatewere made according to the same protocol, starting from commercial(3R)-3-amino-3-phenylpropan-1-ol or 3-amino-3-phenylpropan-1-ol,respectively.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.72 (s, 9H), 2.1-2.55 (m, CH₂, 2H), 3.2-3.6(m, CH₂S, 21H), 3.9-4.25 (m, CH₂O, CH₂N, 4H), 5.49 (m, CH, 1H), 5.51 (s,CH, 1H), 6.85 (s broad, NH, 1H), 7.5-7.7 (m, CH(Ar), 5H); M⁺(ESI⁺):367.1.

According to the general method outlined above for the synthesis ofIntermediates 6, starting from commercial3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid (III) and theappropriate commercial amines (IV), the following, related intermediates(V) were obtained:

tert-butyl2-({[(1R)-2-hydroxy-1-phenylethyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.7 (s, 9H), 3.2-3.6 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-4.0 (m,CH₂O, CH₂N, 4H), 5.1 (m, CH, 1H), 5.5 (s, CH, 1H), 6.8 (s broad, NH,1H), 7.5-7.7 (m, CH(Ar), 5H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 353.4.

tert-butyl2-({[2-(dimethylamino)-1-phenylethyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.4 (s, 9H), 2.28 (s, CH₃N, 6H), 2.4-2.7 (m,CH₂N, 2H), 2.9-3.3 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-4.0 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 4.85 (m, CH,1H), 5.3 (s broad, CH, 1H), 7.2-7.4 (m, CH(Ar), 5H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 380.5.

tert-butyl2-({[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.5 (m, 9H), 3.2-3.4 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-4.0 (m,CH₂N, 2H), 5.3 (m, CH, 1H), 6.1 (s, CH, 1H), 6.8 (s broad, NH, 1H),7.0-7.3 (m, CH(Ar), 7H), 7.6 (m, CH(Pyr), 1H), 8.1 (m, CH(Pyr), 1H);M⁺(ESI⁺): 400.2.

tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.5 (m, 9H), 3.2-3.45 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-3.9(m, CH₂N, 2H), 5.3 (m, CH, 1H), 6.1 (s, CH, 1H), 6.8 (s broad, NH, 1H),7.0-7.3 (m, CH(Ar), 7H), 7.6 (m, CH(Pyr), 1H), 8.1 (m, CH(Pyr), 1H);M⁺(ESI⁺): 400.2.CH(Pyr), 1H);

M⁺(ESI⁺): 400.5.

tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.5 (s, 9H), 2.1-2.52 (m, CH₂, 2H), 3.25-3.6(m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.9-4.15 (m, CH₂O, CH₂N, 4H), 5.45 (m, CH, 1H), 5.50 (s,CH, 1H), 6.75 (s broad, NH, 1H), 7.5-7.6 (m, CH(Ar), 4H); M⁺(ESI⁺):385.5.

tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.7 (s, 9H), 2.1-2.5 (m, CH₂, 2H), 3.2-3.5 (m,CH₂S, 2H), 3.9-4.15 (m, CH₂O, CH₂N, 4H), 5.40 (m, CH, 1H), 5.45 (s, CH,1H), 6.8 (s broad, NH, 1H), 7.5-7.5 (m, CH(Ar), 3H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 403.2.

tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-1-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.65 (s, 9H), 2.1-2.55 (m, CH₂, 2H), 3.2-3.56(m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.9-4.27 (m, CH₂O, CH₂N, 4H), 5.46 (m, CH, 1H), 5.6 (s,CH, 1H), 6.8 (s broad, NH, 1H), 7.5-7.7 (m, CH(Ar), 4H); M⁺(ESI⁺):403.8.

tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate:¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.7 (s, 9H), 2.1-2.5 (m, CH₂, 2H), 3.2-3.6 (m,CH₂S, 2H), 3.9-4.25 (m, CH₂O, CH₂N, 4H), 5.47 (m, CH, 1H), 5.49 (s, CH,1H), 6.85 (s broad, NH, 1H), 7.5-7.7 (m, CH(Ar), 5H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 367.2.

Intermediate 7: e.g. methyl3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylate

Commercial 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid methyl ester hydrochloride(IX) (3 g, 16.33 mmol) was dissolved in DCM dry (50 ml) and the solutionwas cooled down to zero degree. Triethylamine (4.96 g, 49 mmol) wasadded in DCM (10 ml) followed by the sulfonyl chloride (4.13 g, 16.33mmol) in DCM (50 ml). The reaction mixture was stirred for 24 h at roomtemperature. Aminomethyl polystyrene resin (1 g, 3.3 mmol/g) was addedto the reaction mixture and stirred for two hours before filtering atthe pump. The organic solution was washed with saturated solution ofammonium chloride (100 ml) and brine (100 ml). The organic layer wasthen dried with magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo (crude yield70%). Silica gel chromatography, eluting with 15% ethyl acetate inhexanes gave the desired compound as a white solid, methyl3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylate (2.98 g,50% yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.7-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7 (s, CH₃O, 3H),3.8-4.0 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 5.2 (m, CH, 1H), 5.5 (s, CH, 1H), 7.4-8.0 (m,CH(Ar), 9H); M⁻(ESI⁻): 362.5.

Intermediate 8: Thiazolidine intermediates of general formula (VIII);e.g. 3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acidand

Method A:

A stirred solution of 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid (VII) (6.0 g,45.1 mmol, 1 eq) in dioxane (60 ml, 10 vol), 1M aqueous sodium carbonatesolution (90 ml, 15 vol) and water (50 ml, 8.3 vol) was treated at RTover 50 minutes with a solution of a sulfonyl chloride (VI), e.g.,[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride (12.0 g, 47.5 mmol, 1.05 eq) indioxane (50 ml, 8.3 vol w.r.t. thiazolidine input). The thick whitesuspension which resulted was stirred (poorly) for 2.5 hrs, when TLC(silica, 1:1 EtOAc/hexane, 1% AcOH) showed a negligible amount ofsulphonyl chloride remaining. The reaction mixture was cooled to 10° C.and filtered, solids washed with water (50 ml), and the filter cakesucked “dry” overnight. The wet filter cake (32 mg) was stirred in water(165 ml) and dioxane (160 ml), and warmed to ca. 60° C., giving a clearcolorless solution, (pH ca.7), which was stirred at about thistemperature while adding 2M HCl (13 ml) to give a pH of 2. The resultingsuspension was stirred while cooling to 10° C., aged for a few minutesthen filtered and solids washed with water (3×20 ml). The product ofgeneral structure (VIII), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid, wasdried in vacuo at 45° C. giving 11.01 g (70%).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d6); 2.6-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.6-3.9 (m, CH₂N, 2H)5.45 (s, CH, 1H), 7.4-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 9H); M⁻(ESI⁻): 348.0.

Following the same method A, starting from benzeneacetic acid,4-(chlorosulfonyl)-alpha,alpha-dimethyl-, methyl ester, the compound2-thiazolidinecarboxylic acid,3-[[4-(2-methoxy-1,1-dimethyl-2-oxoethyl)phenyl]sulfonyl]—was obtainedin 63% yield and 93% HPLC purity.

¹H-RMN (CDCl₃) δ 7.83 (d, Jd=8.67, 2H); 7.50 (d, Jd=8.67, 2H); 5.47 (s,1H); 3.78-3.90 (m, 2H); 3.68 (s, 3H); 3.19 (td, Jt=6.03, Jd=10.55, 1H);2.80 (td, Jt=6.41, Jd=10.55, 1H); 1.61 (s, 6H)

Method B:

A solution was made containing Intermediate 6, e.g., methyl3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylate (2.0 g,5.5 mmol, 1 eq), in dry DCM (50 ml). The flask was cooled down to −20°C. in a dry-acetone bath. A solution of boron tribromide (5.55 g, 22.0mmol) in dry DCM (30 ml) was added drop wise over a period of 10minutes. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 h at 0° C. The reactionmixture was diluted with DCM (50 ml) and washed with a 1M HCl solution(2×50 ml) and with brine (50 ml) before drying over magnesium sulfate,filtering and removal of solvent in vacuo. The desired product ofgeneral structure (VIII), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid, wasisolated as a white powder (1.8 g, 94%).

Intermediate 9: Thiazolidine intermediates of general formula (XXVIII);e.g.,(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate;3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate

Intermediates of general structure (XXVI), e.g.,(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamideor3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(3.5 g, 7.25 mmol), were dissolved in dry DCM (20 ml) at 0° C. and TEA(2.2 g, 21.76 mmol) was added followed by MsCl (1 g, 8.7 mmol) in 10 mlof DCM. The reaction mixture was stirred for 4 h at r.t., then washedwith saturated NH₄Cl and brine. The organic layer was dried over Na₂SO₄,and the solvents evaporated. The crude products of general structure(XXVIII), e.g.,(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate and3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate were directly utilized for the next reaction.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.0-2.25 (m, 2H), 2.25-2.8 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 2.87(s broad, CH₃, 3H), 3.5-4.2 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.03 (m, CH, 1H), 5.15(s broad, CH, 1H), 7.2-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 14H).

Intermediate 10: Thiazolidine intermediates of general formula (XXXI);e.g.,(2S)—N-[(1S)-3-amino-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamideandN-[3-amino-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

a) Mitsunobu-reaction using phthalimide, e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsuyfonyl)-N-[3-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Intermediates of general structure (XXVI), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(1.0 g, 1.0 eq, 2.07 mmol) were dissolved in 20 ml dry THF undernitrogen. Phthalamide (395 mg, 1.5 eq, 2.69 mmol),diethylazodicarboxylate (470 mg, 1.5 eq, 2.69 mmol) and polymer boundtriphenyl phosphine (1.0 g, 1.5 eq, 2.70 mmol) were then added and thereaction mixture was shaken for 12 hours at RT. The triphenyl phosphineresin was filtered off and the THF solution evaporated in vacuo. Theresidue was taken up in DCM and washed twice with a saturated sodiumcarbonate solution and then water. The organic layer was dried withmagnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to give a crude productwhich was purified on silica gel using cyclohexane/ethyl acetate(7/3) aseluent, to obtain the desired products, e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidein 57% yield as a white oil in 96% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.10-2.40 (m, 2H, CH₂), 2.509-2.61 (m, 1H,CH₂S), 2.90-3.30 (m, 1H, CH₂S), 3.69-3.93 (m, 4H, CH₂N), 5.06 (m, 1H,CH), 5.32 (s, 1H, CH), 6.39 (m, 1H, NH), 7.05-7.67 (m, 16H, CH(Ar)),7.71-7.81 (m, 2H, CH(Ar)); M⁺(ESI⁺): 612.6; M⁻(ESI⁻): 610.71.

b) Hydrazinolysis, e.g.,N-[3-amino-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

The intermediates from the previous step, e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(400 mgs, 1.0 eq, 0.65 mmol) were dissolved in a mixture of EtOH/THF(15/1) at room temperature. 1.5 ml of hydrazine was introduced andreaction mixture heated up to 70 C for 12 hours. The correspondingphthalhydrazide precipitate was filtered off, rinsed with DCM and theorganic solvents concentrated in vacuo. The residue was taken up inethylacetate (20 ml), washed several times with a sodium hydrogenocarbonate solution (10%), dried with magnesium sulfate. The organicsolvents were then concentrated in vacuo to give a crude compound, whichwas purified by flash chromatography using DCM/MeOH (98/2) as eluent,affording the desired compounds, e.g.,N-[3-amino-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidewas obtained in 70% yield as a white oil in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.88 (m, 2H, CH₂), 2.40 (m, 2H, NH₂), 2.48-2.50(m, 1H, CH₂S), 2.89-2.90 (m, 1H, CH₂S), 3.20-3.53 (m, 2H, CH₂),3.70-3.90 (m, 2H, CH₂N), 5.10 (m, 1H, CH), 5.27 (s, 1H, CH), 6.45 (m,1H, NH), 7.19-7.88 (m, 14H, CH(Ar)); M⁺(ESI⁺): 482.47; M⁻(ESI⁻): 480.88.

Intermediate 11: Substituted aryl and heteroaryl aldehyde derivatives ofgeneral formula (XVI); e.g.,6-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]-2-pyridinecarbaldehyde

a) N-(2-[(6-bromo-2-pyridinyl)oxy]ethyl)-N,N-dimethylamine (XXIII)

2-dimethylaminoethanol (2 mL, 20 mmol) was added at rt to a suspensionof NaH (oil was not removed) in dry DMF (3 mL). The mixture was stirredat rt for 2 hours and 1 h at 60° C. Then commercial 2,6-dibromopyridine(6.16 g, 26 mmol, 1.3 eq) was added at rt and the whole was stirred atrt overnight. The crude mixture was dissolved in some Et₂O and wasextracted with 2 portions of citric acid 30%. Combined aqueous phaseswere washed with 2 portions of Et₂O. The aqueous phase was basified withNaOH 5N at 0° C. and was extracted with 3 portions of Et₂O. Combinedorganic phases was dried over MgSO₄, filtrated and evaporated. As someDMF remained, HCl in Et2O was added. The solvents were evaporated andthe resulting solid was put at the pump for 4 hours. It was dissolved inH₂O and basified with NaOH 5 M. The desired product (the base) wasextracted with 3 portions of Et₂O. Combined organic layers were driedover MgSO4, filtrated and evaporated to give the desired product(XXIII), N-{2-[(6-bromo-2-pyridinyl)oxy]ethyl}-N,N-dimethylamine (4.4309g, 18.076 mmol, 90.4%).

¹H NMR (360 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.16 (s, 6H); 2.53 (m, 2H); 4.23 (m, 2H); 6.58(m, 1H); 6.88 (m, 1H); 7.24 (m, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 245.2/247.2

b) 6-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]-2-pyridinecarbaldehyde

n-BuLi 2.5 M in hexane (1.2 mL, 3 mmol, 3 eq) was added at −70° C. to asolution of the product from the previous step,N-{2-[(6-bromo-2-pyridinyl)oxy]ethyl}-N,N-dimethylamine (245 mg, 1 mmol)in dry THF (10 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at −70° C. for 1 h30 min. Ethyl formate (freshly distilled over P₂O₅) was added at −70°C., and the reaction mixture was stirred at −70° C. for 2 hours. Thereaction was quenched with addition of water. The reaction mixture wasextracted with 3 portions of DCM. Combined organic phase were dried withMgSO4, filtrated and evaporated to give the desired product,6-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]-2-pyridinecarbaldehyde (192 mg, 0.988 mmol,99%).

¹H NMR (360 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.24 (s, 6H); 3.62 (m, 2H); 4.41 (m, 2H); 6.91(d, 1H, J=6 Hz); 7.44 (m, 1H); 7.60 (t, 1H, J=6 Hz); 9.81 (s, 1H).

Example 1 General protocols for the solution-phase synthesis of1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of general formula (1); e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide;(2S)-3-([1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide;(2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,(2S)-3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamideStrategy 1:

N-methyl morpholine (NMM) (3.24 g, 2.5 eq, 32.15 mmol) was added to asolution of a compound of general formula (VIII) (Intermediate 8, 4.50g, 1 eq, 12.86 mmol), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid, indry THF (100 ml) and the reaction mixture was cooled down to −25° C. Tothe reaction mixture was then added drop wise, over a period of 5minutes, isobutyl chloroformate (1.84 g, 1.05 eq, 13.50 mmol) insolution in dry THF (20 ml). The resulting mixture was stirred at −25°C. for 30 minutes, after which time an amine of general formula (IV) or(IV*) (commercial or Intermediate 2, 2.14 g, 1.1 eq, 14.15 mmol), e.g.,(3S)-3-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol, was added in dry THF (20 ml) over aperiod of 5 minutes. The mixture was allowed to gradually warm to roomtemperature and stirred overnight at room temperature. The solvent wasremoved and the residue re-dissolved in ethyl acetate (200 ml). Theorganic layer was washed subsequently with a saturated solution ofammonium chloride (100 ml), saturated bicarbonate (100 ml) and brine(100 ml). The combined organic phases were dried with magnesium sulfateand concentrated in vacuo, yielding the crude product of general formula([), e.g.,3-(1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,as a white solid (6.21 g, 96%). Silica gel chromatography, eluting inisocratic conditions (50% ethyl acetate in hexanes), which gave theseparation of the desired two pure diastereoisomers of general formula(I), e.g.,(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(more polar compound, 3.1 g), and(2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(less polar compound, 3.0 g).

Strategy 2: a) Protocol for the N-Deprotection Step Method A:

A solution was made containing a compound of general structure (V)(Intermediate 6, 0.788 g, 2.15 mmol), e.g., tert-butyl2-({[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate,in anhydrous DCM (50 ml). At 0° C., 4M HCl solution in dioxane (50 ml)was added, or alternatively, HCl gas, previously dried with a H₂SO₄ cctrap, was bubbled slowly through the reaction and deprotection wasmonitored by TLC using cyclohexane/ethyl acetate (1/1) and stained witha pancaldi solution. After approximately 45 minutes, TLC showed noremaining starting materiel and DCM was then evaporated in vacuo withoutheating to avoid salt decomposition. More DCM (20 ml) was then added andevaporated again in vacuo to remove remaining potential HCl (2-3 times).The desired product, e.g.,N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidehydrochloride, was isolated as a white solid and used for the next stepwithout further purification and characterization.

Method B:

In a 6 L 4-neck flask, was added a solution containing a compound ofgeneral structure (V) (Intermediate 6, 60 g g, 150.18 mmol), e.g.,tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate,in DCM under argon atmosphere (1250 ml). At −30° C., a solution of HClconc. (627 mL, 7509 mmol) was added slowly during a period of 40minutes. The reaction mixture was stirred at −30° C. for 3 h 30. Thereaction was kept at −30° C. and a solution of 1 L of NAOH 1M was addedfollowed by 1250 mL of NaOH 5M so that to obtain pH=5. The last 50 mL of5M NaOH solution were added at −10° C. due to formation if ice in theflask. The slurry was extracted with DCM (5×500 mL) and dried over MgSO4and evaporated to almost dryness. The desired product, e.g.,(2S)—N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidehydrochloride, was isolated and used for the next step without furtherpurification and shows no trace of racemisation.

b) Protocols for the N-Capping Step

Method A: To a solution of the product from the previous step, e.g.,N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidehydrochloride (636 mg, 1 eq, 2.1 mmol) in DCM (50 ml) was added acompound of general structure (VI) (commercial or Intermediate 4, 543mg, 1 eq, 2.15 mmol), e.g., [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride,followed by TEA (1.74 g, 8 eq, 17.2 mmol) in dry DCM (50 ml) and thereaction mixture was stirred overnight at room temperature. Aminomethylpolystyrene resin (250 mg) was added to the reaction mixture and stirredfor one hour before filtering at the pump. The solution was washed withcitric acid (aq) (2×50 ml), then dried over MgSO₄, and evaporated invacuo. The product of general structure (1), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,was purified by Silica gel chromatography, eluting in isocraticconditions (50% ethyl acetate in hexanes), which gave the separation ofthe desired two pure diastereoisomers of general formula (I), e.g.,(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(more polar compound, 300 mg) and(2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(less polar compound, 310 mg), corresponding to an overall yield of 60%.

Method B: To a solution of a compound of general structure (X)(commercial or Intermediate 4, 504 mg, 1 eq, 2.1 mmol), e.g.,[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonic acid, in dry THF (20 ml), at 0° C., was dropwise added thionyl chloride (580 mg, 2 eq, 4.3 mmol) in dry THF solution(10 ml). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature over a 2 hperiod. The excess of thionyl chloride was then evaporated in vacuo andthe crude product of general formula (VI), e.g.,[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride, was then directly added to asolution ofN-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidehydrochloride (636 mg, 1 eq, 2.1 mmol) in DCM (50 ml). To the reactionmixture, TEA (1.74 g, 17.2 mmol) was added in dry DCM (50 ml) and thereaction mixture was stirred overnight at room temperature. Aminomethylpolystyrene resin (250 mg) was added to the reaction mixture and stirredfor one hour before filtering at the pump. The solution was washed withcitric acid (aq) (2×50 ml) and then dried over MgSO₄, and evaporated invacuo. The product of general structure (I), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,was purified by Silica gel chromatography, eluting in isocraticconditions (50% ethyl acetate in hexanes), which gave the separation ofthe desired two pure diastereoisomers of general formula (I), e.g.,(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(more polar compound, 280 mg) and(2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(less polar compound, 300 mg), corresponding to an overall yield of 58%.

Method C: In a 3 L 4 necks flask was dissolved(2S)—N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidehydrochloride (50.4 g, 150 mmol) in 1800 mL of dry THF under argon at−30° C. When the temperature was reached, NMM (198 mL, 182 mmol) wasadded slowly, followed by (1.8 g, 15 mmol) of DMAP. The sulfonylchloride, e.g., [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride dissolved in 445 mLof anhydrous THF, was then added over a period of 30 min at −30° C. Thereaction was stirred overnight and allow to warm to room temperature.The solvents were evaporated under vacuum (temperature of the bath=35°C.) and the resulting oily-solid slightly pink mixture was dissolved in2 L of AcOEt and this mixture was extracted with 2×500 mL of NH₄Cl sat,NaHCO₃ sat. and NaCl sat. The organic layer was dried over MgSO₄ andevaporated to give 100 g of crude product. No racemisation was detectedby chiral HPLC (WhelkO1 (S,S) hexane/EtOH 5/5 0.1% TEA). The crudeproduct was purified by flash chromatography to give 41.45 g of thedesired product(2S)-3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamideas a white solid. Yield: 53.5%.

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide.¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.8-2.3 (m, 2H), 2.55-3.15 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.6-3.60-4.0 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.2-5.3 (m, CH, 0.5H), 5.35 (s, CH,0.5H), 5.37 (s, CH, 0.5H), 7.2-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 14H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 483.1;M⁻(ESI⁻) 481.1.

(2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide.¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.8-2.25 (m, 2H), 2.55-3.15 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.65-3.8 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 3.65-4.0 (m, CH₂O, 2H), 5.2 (m, CH, 1H), 5.36(s, CH, 1H), 7.2-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 14H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 483.1; M⁻(ESI⁻) 481.2.

(2R)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide.¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.85-2.3 (m, 2H), 2.55-3.15 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.65-3.9 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.2-5.3 (m, CH, 1H), 5.37 (s, CH, 1H),7.25-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 14H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 483.0; M⁻(ESI⁻) 481.0.

Example 23-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1R)-2-hydroxy-1-phenylethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and commercial (2R)-2-amino-2-phenylethanol, the titlecompound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.4-2.9 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.5-3.7 (m, CH₂N, 2H),3.7-3.9 (m, CH₂O, 2H), 4.9 (m, CH, 1H), 5.2 (s, CH, 1H), 7.1-7.9 (m,CH(Ar), 14H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 469.2; M⁻(ESI⁻) 467.1.

Example 33-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and (R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methanamine (Intermediate1), the title compound was obtained in 96% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.5-3.0 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.6-4.0 (m, CH₂N, 2H),5.41 (s, CH, 0.5H), 5.42 (s, CH, 0.5H), 6.07 (m, CH, 1H), 5.2 (s, CH,1H), 7.1-7.8 (m, CH(Ar), 16H), 7.8-7.9 (m, CH, 1H), 8.5-8.6 (m, CH, 1H);M⁺(ESI⁺): 516.3; M⁻(ESI⁻) 514.1.

Example 43-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-propanol (Intermediate2), the title compound was obtained in 92% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.8-2.15 (m, CH₂, 2H), 2.5-2.9 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.5-3.8 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.15 (m, CH, 1H), 5.25 (s, CH, 1H), 7.1-7.9(m, CH(Ar), 13H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 501.3.

Example 53-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(3-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(3-furyl)-1-propanol (Intermediate 2),the title compound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.7-2.2 (m, CH₂, 2H), 2.5-2.9 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.6-3.8 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.12 (m, CH, 1H), 5.21 (s, CH, 1H),6.25-6.35 (d, CH(furyl), 1H), 6.9-7.1 (m, CH(furyl), 1H), 7.3-7.9 (m,CH(Ar), 10H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 473.1; M⁻(ESI⁻): 471.1.

Example 63-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2-chlorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(2-chlorophenyl)-1-propanol (Intermediate2), the title compound was obtained in 94% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.95-2.15 (m, CH₂, 2H), 2.5-2.9 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.6-3.8 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.28 (s, CH, 0.5H), 5.29 (s, CH, 0.5H),5.4-5.5 (m, CH, 1H), 7.1-7.9 (m, CH(Ar), 13H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 517.3.

Example 73-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(3-chlorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(2-chlorophenyl)-1-propanol (Intermediate2), the title compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.8-2.2 (m, CH₂, 2H), 2.55-3.0 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.6-3.8 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.1-5.2 (m, CH, 1H), 5.24 (s, CH, 0.5H),5.28 (s, CH, 0.5H), 7.2-7.9 (m, CH(Ar), 13H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 517.1; M⁻(ESI⁻):514.8.

Example 8N-[1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-1-propanol(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 92% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.7-2.2 (m, CH₂, 2H), 2.45-3.0 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.6-3.95 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.0-5.1 (m, CH, 1H), 5.26 (s, CH, 0.5H),5.28 (s, CH, 0.5H), 5.87 (s, CH, 1H), 5.89 (s, CH, 1H), 6.8-7.9 (m,CH(Ar), 12H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 527.1; M⁻(ESI⁻): 525.0.

Example 9(2S)-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-N-[(1S-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and commercial (3S)-3-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol, thetitle compound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.27 (s, CH₃, 9H), 1.65-2.15 (m, CH₂, 2H),2.45-2.95 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.6-3.95 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O, 4H), 5.1-5.2 (m, CH,1H), 5.26 (s, CH, 1H), 7.3-7.7 (m, CH(Ar), 9H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 463.1;M⁻(ESI⁻): 461.6.

Example 10(2S)—N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-3-[(4-tert-pentylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-[(4-tert-pentylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and commercial (3S)-3-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol, thetitle compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 0.63 (t, J=7.3 Hz, 3H), 1.29 (s, CH₃, 6H), 1.65(q, J=7.4 Hz, 2H), 1.88 (m, CH₂, 1H), 2.19 (m, CH₂, 1H), 2.5 (m, CH₂S,1H), 2.94 (dt, J=12 Hz and 5.6 Hz, CH₂S, 1H), 3.65-3.87 (m, CH₂N, CH₂O,4H), 5.2 (td, J=6.6 Hz and 3.8 Hz, CH, 1H), 5.32 (s, CH, 1H), 7.25-7.8(m, CH(Ar), 9H); M⁺(ESI⁻): 477.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 475.0.

Example 113-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(2-fluorophenyl)-1-propanol (Intermediate2), the title compound was obtained in 96% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.24 (m, 3H), 2.25 (m, 1H), 2.95 (m, 1H),3.63-3.90 (m, 4H), 5.31 (m, 2H), 6.99-7.86 (m, 13H).; M⁺(ESI⁺): 501;M⁻(ESI⁻): 499.

Example 123-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2-methylphenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(2-methylphenyl)-1-propanol (Intermediate2), the title compound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.86 (m, 1H), 2.09 (m, 1H), 2.36 (s, 3H), 2.57(m, 1H), 2.99 (m, 1H), 3.72-3.92 (m, 4H), 5.31-5.40 (m, 2H), 7.19-7.88(m, 13H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 497; M⁻(ESI⁻): 495.

Example 133-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2-methoxyphenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-propanol(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 87% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.00 (m, 2H), 2.57 (m, 1H), 2.87-2.98 (m, 2H),3.62-3.70 (m, 3H), 3.92 (m, 0.4H), 3.92 (s, 1.8H), 3.98 (s, 1.2H), 4.04(m, 0.6H), 5.23 (m, 1H), 5.43 (m, 1H), 6.92 (m, 2H), 7.22-7.45 (m, 2H),7.46 (m, 3H), 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.77 (m, 2H), 7.90 (m, 2H), 8.26 (d, J=11.7Hz, 0.6H), 8.47 (d, J=9.8 Hz, 0.4H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 513; M⁻(ESI⁻): 511.

Example 143-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-1-propanol(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 80% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.01 (m, 2H), 2.69 (m, 1H), 3.00 (m, 1H),3.69-3.96 (m, 4H), 4.32 (m, 0.5H), 5.36 (m, 1H), 5.62 (m, 1H), 6.91-7.91(m, 13H).; M⁺(ESI⁺): 519; M⁻(ESI⁻): 517.

Example 153-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 3-amino-3-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1-propanol(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 94.9% purity byHPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.94 (m, 1H), 2.09 (m, 1H), 2.30 (m, 6H), 2.56(m, 1H), 2.87 (m, 0.5H), 2.99 (m, 0.5H), 3.70 (m, 3H), 391 (m, 1H),5.31-5.37 (m, 2H), 6.76 (m, 2H), 6.99 (m, 2H), 7.45-7.93 (m, 9H).;M⁻(ESI⁻): 511. M⁻(ESI⁻): 509.

Example 16 General protocols for the solution-phase synthesis of1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of general formula (I) fromintermediates of general formula (XXVIII) (Intermediates 8)

Methods for the nucleophile substitution of the mesylate group incompounds of general structure (XXVIII) (Intermediate 9) by primary orsecondary amines include:

Method A (Displacement by Secondary Amines):

The mesylate derivative of general formula (XXVIII) (Intermediate 8, 1eq.) and LiBr (1.5 eq) were dissolved in a mixture ofacetonitrile/2-butanone (1:1) (e.g., dilution 500 mg in 10 ml ofsolvents) and agitated for 20 min at room temperature. To this solutionwas added

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); ¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.85-2.2 (m, 2H), 2.5(s, CH₃N, 3H), 2.45-3.00 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 2.7-3.0 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 3.6 (m,CH₂N, 2H), 4.2 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 4.7 (m, CH, 1H), 5.3 (s, CH, 1H), 6.37 (m,CH(furyl), 1H), 6.56 (m, CH(furyl), 1H), 7.05-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 15H), 8.7(m, NH, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 576.1; M⁻(ESI⁻): 573.8.

Example 18(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-(diethylamino)-1-phenyl-propyl]-[3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and N,N-diethylamine, the titlecompound was obtained in 98.6% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO); 1.05 (t, J=7.3 Hz, 6H), 1.88 (m, CH₂, 2H),2.79-2.81 (m, CH₂N, 6H), 3.05 (m, CH₂S, 1H), 3.05-3.50 (broad, H₂O),3.81 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 4.86 (td, J=6.6 Hz and 3.8 Hz, CH, 1H), 5.44 (s, CH,1H), 6.58 (s, CH₂, 2H), 7.24-7.33 (m, CH(Ar), 5H); 7.53 (m, CH(Ar), 3H),7.76 (m, CH(Ar), 2H), 7.95 (m, CH(Ar), 4H), 8.68 (m, 1H, NH); M⁺(ESI⁺):538.0; M⁻(ESI⁻); 536.0. TEA (1 eq) and the amine of general structureHNR⁵R⁶ (3-4 eq) in 10 ml acetonitrile/2-butanone (1:1). The reactionmixture was heated at reflux (80° C.) for 16 h. The reaction mixture wascooled down to room temperature and evaporated in vacuo, redissolved inEtOAc (50 ml) and washed with an aqueous solution of NaHCO₃ sat. Theorganic phase was dried over Na₂SO₄. The crude product of generalformula (I) was purified on FC with an appropriated gradient EtOAc:CycloHexane: MeOH.

Method B (Displacement by Primary Amines):

The mesylate derivative of general formula (XXVIII) (Intermediate 8, 1eq.) was dissolved in dry THF (e.g., dilution 760 mg in 76 ml of THF).Sodium iodide (10 eq.), anhydrous potassium carbonate (2 eq.) and theamine of general structure HNR⁵R⁶ (3.5 eq.) were added and the reactionmixtures were shaken at room temperature for 6 days. Potassium carbonateand sodium iodide were filtered and the THF evaporated. The residue wasdissolved in DCM and Ameba (aminomethylbenzylaldehyde) resin (2 eq.) wasadded to the flask. The reaction was shaken at room temperature overnight. The resin was filtered and the solvent removed. The compoundswere analyzed by LC-MS. When the purity was <60%, the compound wasfurther purified using amberlyst 15 resin in MeOH. The reaction mixturewas shaken at room temperature for 2 days. The resin was filtered andwashed with methanol. The final product of general structure (1) wasthen released using concentrated HCl/MeOH (1/1) over night.

Example 17(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[(2-furylmethyl)(methyl)-amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and 2-furyl-N-methylmethanamine, thetitle compound was obtained in 98.2% purity by HPLC.

Example 19(2S)—N-{(1S3-[benzyl(methyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and N-methyl(phenyl)methanamine, thetitle compound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.75-2.1 (m, 2H), 2.2 (s, CH₃N, 3H), 2.3-2.9(m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.3-3.5 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 3.6 (s, CH₂N, 2H), 3.9 (m, CH₂N,2H), 5.0 (m, CH, 1H), 5.3 (s, CH, 1H), 7.0-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 19H), 8.6 (m,NH, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 586.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 583.8.

Example 20(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—((15)-3-{methyl[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethyl]-amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) andN-methyl-2-(2-pyridinyl)ethanamine, the title compound was obtained in100% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO); 1.75 (m, CH₂, 6H), 2.18 (s, CH₃, 3H), 2.36 (m,CH, 1H), 2.50 (m, CHS, 1H), 2.55-2.85 (m, CH, 3H), 2.95 (m, CHS, 1H),2.37 (m, CH₂, 2H), 3.67-3.74 (m, 2H, CH₂N), 4.70 (s, CH, 1H), 5.34 (s,CH, 1H), 6.47 (s, 2H, H vinyl), 7.14-7.25 (m, CH(Ar), 7H); 7.40-7.49 (m,CH(Ar), 3H), 7.50-7.70 (m, CH(Ar), 3H), 7.83 (m, CH(Ar), 4H), 8.33 (m,CH(Ar), 1H), 8.58 (m, 1H, NH); M⁺(ESI⁺): 601; M⁻(ESI⁻): 599

Example 21(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[(2-hydroxyethyl)(methyl)-amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and 2-(methylamino)ethanol, the titlecompound was obtained in 94.3% purity by HPLC.

¹NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.8-2.2 (m, 2H), 2.36 (s, CH₃N, 3H), 2.45-3.05(m, CH₂S, 2H), 2.6-2.7 (m, CH₂N, 4H), 3.7 (m, CH₂O, 2H), 3.7-4.1 (m,CH₂N, 2H), 5.1-5.25 (m, CH, 1H), 5.48 (s, CH, 1H), 7.25-8.0 (m, CH(Ar),14H), 8.55 (m, NH, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 540.2; M⁻ (ESI⁻): 537.99.

Example 22methyl[[(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropyl](methyl)amino]acetate

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and methyl(methylamino)acetate, thetitle compound was obtained in 98.9% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.8-2.2 (m, 21H), 2.4 (s, CH₃N, 3H), 2.5-3.0(m, CH₂S, 2H), 2.6-2.7 (m, C₁₋₂N, 21H), 3.4 (s, CH₂N, 2H), 3.69 (s,CH₃O, 3H), 3.7-4.0 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 5.1 (m, CH, 1H), 5.49 (s, CH, 1H),7.2-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 141H), 8.6 (m, NH, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 568.2; M⁻(ESI⁻):565.8.

Example 233-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-phenyl-3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and pyrrolidine, the title compoundwas obtained in 99.2% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.15-2.4 (m, CH₂, 6H), 2.45-3.05 (m, CH₂S, 2H),2.5-3.5 (m, CH₂N, 6H), 3.9-4.25 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 5.2 (m, CH, 1H), 5.5 (s,CH, 1H), 7.2-8.0 (m, CH(Ar), 14H), 8.5 (m, NH, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 536.3;M⁻(ESI⁻): 534.2.

Example 243-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(dimethylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and N,N-dimethylamine, the titlecompound was obtained in 99.6% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.2-2.7 (m, CH₂, 2H), 2.45-3.00 (m, CH₂S, 2H),2.7 (s, CH₃N, 3H), 2.9 (s, CH₃N, 3H), 3.5-3.9 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 4.0-4.25(m, CH₂N, 2H), 5.0 (m, CH, 1H), 5.3 (s, CH, 1H), 7.2-8.0 (m, CH (Ar),14H), 8.5 (m, NH, 1H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 510.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 508.1.

Example 25N-[3-(1-azepanyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and azepane, the title compound wasobtained in 99.1% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 564.3; M⁻(ESI⁻): 562.3.

Example 263-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-phenyl-3-(1-piperidinyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and piperidine, the title compound wasobtained in 99.5% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 550.3; M⁻(ESI⁻): 548.2.

Example 273-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-(4-morpholinyl)-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and morpholine, the title compound wasobtained in 99.3% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 552.3; M⁻(ESI⁻): 550.2.

Example 283-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxy-2-phenylethyl)(methyl)-amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and 2-(methylamino)-1-phenylethanol,the title compound was obtained in 82% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 616.3; M⁻(ESI⁻): 614.9.

Example 293-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(3-hydroxy-3-phenylpropyl)(methyl)-amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method A as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and3-(methylamino)-1-phenyl-1-propanol, the title compound was obtained in85% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 630.4; M⁻(ESI⁻): 628.2.

Example 303-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(2-hydroxycyclohexyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method B as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and 2-aminocyclohexanol, the titlecompound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 580.6; M⁻(ESI⁻): 578.8.

Example 31N-[3-(benzylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method B as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and benzylamine, the title compoundwas obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 571.8; M⁻(ESI⁻): 569.99.

Example 323-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(1-phenyl-3-{[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethyl]-amino}propyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general method B as outlined in Example 16, starting from3-({[3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylmethanesulfonate (Intermediate 9) and 2-(2-pyridinyl)ethanamine, thetitle compound was obtained in 97.4% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 586.9; M⁻(ESI⁻): 585.3.

Example 33 General protocols for the solid-phase synthesis of1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of general formula (I)

a) Loading step

A solution of an suitably protected intermediate of general formula(III), e.g., 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(8.6 g, 35.7 mmol) in dry DCM (100 ml) was added to Kaiser oxime resin(10 g, 11.9 mmol) suspended in dry DCM (100 ml). Diisopropylcarbodiimide(4.5 g, 35.7 mmol) was then added to the suspension and shaken overnightat ambient temperature. The resin was then filtered at the pump andwashed sequentially with NMP, DCM, MeOH and finally diethyl ether beforebeing dried at 40° C. in vacuo.

b) N-deprotection step

The resin obtained in the previous loading step was shaken with a 20%solution of trifluoroacetic acid in dichloromethane (100 ml) for 30minutes prior to filtering at the pump and washing sequentially withaliquots of NMP, DCM, MeOH and finally diethyl ether before being driedat room temperature in vacuo.

c) N-capping step

The resin from the previous deprotection step was transferred into a96-well filter-plate (approx. 50 mg of dry resin/well; Loading 0.93mmol/g; 0.047 mmol) and each well treated with a sulfonyl chloride (VI)(0.140 mmol, 3 eq) and diisopropylethylamine (0.140 mmol, 3 eq) in NMP(1 ml), overnight. The plate was then sealed and shaken overnight atambient temperature. After this time, the resin aliquots were filtered,washed sequentially with aliquots of NMP, DCM and finally diethyl etherbefore being dried at room temperature in vacuo.

d) Cleavage Step

Amines (IV) (e.g., from commercial sources, or Intermediates 1 orIntermediates 2, 0.042 mmol) were added to suspensions of thefunctionalised oxime resin batches from the previous step (50 mg, 0.047mmol) in DCM (0.5-1 ml), and the plates sealed and shaken over theweekend period (˜66 hours) at ambient temperatures. After filtration,the resultant solvent was evaporated in vacuo to give the products ofgeneral formula (I), which were analyzed by HPLC and mass spectroscopy.In cases where an N-Boc-protecting group was present on the finalproduct, a solution of 25% TFA in DCM (3 ml) was added to the crudecompound and stirred at ambient temperatures for 40 min. The solvent wasthen removed in vacuo to give the corresponding final, N-deprotectedproducts, again of general formula (I).

Example 34N-benzyl-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride andbenzylamine, the title compound was obtained in 97% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.6-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-4.1 (m, CH₂N, 2H),4.6-4.7 (m, NCH₂Ar, 2H), 5.6 (s, CH, 1H), 7.3-8.15 (m, CH(Ar), 14H);M⁺(ESI⁺): 439.1; M⁻(ESI⁻): 437.0.

Example 35N-benzyl-3-[(4-tert-butylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 4-tert-butylbenzenesulfonyl chloride andbenzylamine, the title compound was obtained in 97.1% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.1 (s, CH₃, 3H), 2.3-2.8 (m, CH₂S, 2H),3.5-3.8 (m, CH₂N, 2H), 4.2-4.4 (m, NCH₂Ar, 2H), 5.2 (s, CH, 1H),7.0-7.65 (m, CH(Ar), 9H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 419.8; M⁻(ESI⁻): 417.4.

Example 363-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(4-methoxybenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and4-methoxyphenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 98%purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.6-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-4.1 (m, CH₂N, 2H),3.8 (s, CH₃O, 3H), 4.6-4.7 (m, NCH₂Ar, 2H), 5.6 (s, CH, 1H), 7.3-8.1 (m,CH(Ar), 13H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 469.1; M⁻(ESI⁻): 467.4.

Example 373-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-thienylmethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and2-thienylmethanamine, the title compound was obtained in 94% purity byHPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.55-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.65-4.05 (m, CH₂N,2H), 4.6-4.85 (m, NCH₂Ar, 2H), 5.5 (s, CH, 2H), 6.95-8.05 (m, CH(Ar),12H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 445.1; M⁻(ESI⁻): 443.1.

Example 383-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-furylmethyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and2-furylmethanamine, the title compound was obtained in 92.2% purity byHPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.6-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.8-4.3 (m, CH₂N, 2H),4.6-4.75 (m, NCH₂Ar, 2H), 5.7 (s, CH, 2H), 6.6 (m, CH(furyl), 2H),7.45-8.3 (m, CH(Ar), 10H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 429.5; M⁻(ESI⁻): 427.5.

Example 393-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and(4-fluorophenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 92%purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.65-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-4.1 (m, CH₂N, 2H),4.6-4.7 (m, NCH₂Ar, 2H), 5.6 (s, CH, 1H), 6.9-7.9 (m, CH(Ar), 13H);M⁺(ESI⁺): 457.4; M⁻(ESI⁻): 455.2.

Example 40N-benzhydryl-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxy-carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride andbenzhydrylamine, the title compound was obtained in 98.5% purity byHPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.3-2.9 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.5-3.9 (m, CH₂N, 2H),5.3 (s, CH, 1H), 6.2 (s x2, NCHAr, 1H), 7.3-8.15 (m, CH(Ar), 19H);M⁺(ESI⁺): 515.3; M⁻(ESI⁻): 513.7.

Example 413-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl-N-[1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanamine, the title compound was obtained in 85%purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 471.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 469.0.

Example 423-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-methylbenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and(2-methylphenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 99%purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 453.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 451.0.

Example 433-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2,6-difluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and2,6-difluorophenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 85%purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 475.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 473.0.

Example 443-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2,3-difluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and2,3-difluorophenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 93.4%purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 475.4; M⁻(ESI⁻): 472.6.

Example 453-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and(2-methoxyphenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 98.5%purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.6-3.1 (m, CH₂S, 2H), 3.7-4.1 (m, CH₂N, 2H),3.8 (s, CH₃O, 3H), 4.6-4.7 (m, NCH₂Ar, 2H), 5.6 (s, CH, 1H), 7.3-8.1 (m,CH(Ar), 13H); M⁺(ESI⁺): 469.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 467.6.

Example 463-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(2-chlorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and(2-chlorophenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 85%purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 473.3; M⁻(ESI⁻): 470.2.

Example 473-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl-N-(2-fluorobenzyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general solid phase method as outlined Example 33,starting from 3-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylicacid, Kaiser oxime resin, 1,1′-biphenyl-4-sulfonyl chloride and(2-fluorophenyl)methanamine, the title compound was obtained in 88.6%purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 457.03; M⁻(ESI⁻): 455.4.

Example 48 General protocols for the solution-phase synthesis of1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of general formula (XXXIII);e.g.,N-[3-(acetylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide;3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide.

Thiazolidine intermediates of general formula (XXXI) (Intermediate 10)or (XXXII), e.g.,N-[3-amino-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,were reacted with

-   -   an acid chloride, R⁶COCl, with an appropriate base or an acid,        R⁶COOH, with a peptide coupling agent and optionally a base    -   a sulfonyl chloride, R⁶SO₂Cl, with an appropriate base    -   an isocyanate, R⁶NCO, or triphosgene, followed by an amine,        R⁶R⁷NH    -   a chloroformate, R⁶OCOCl, with an appropriate base

Thus, e.g.,N-[3-amino-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(Intermediate 9, 50 mgs, 1.0 eq, 0.10 mmol) was dissolved in 5 ml DCM inpresence of 30 μl triethylamine. Acetyl chloride (10 μl, 1.1 eq, 0.11mol) was introduced slowly at 0° C. and the reaction mixture stirred for30 minutes. It was then hydrolyzed by addition of aqueous sodiumcarbonate (10%) (5 ml), and the compound extracted with DCM. The organicphase was dried with magnesium sulfate and concentrated in vacuo to givea crude compound, which was readily purified by flash chromatographyusing DCM/MeOH (99/1) as eluent, to obtain the desired compound ofgeneral formula (XXXIII), e.g.,N-[3-(acetylamino)-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidein 80% yield as a white gum in 99.5% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.80-2.10 (m, 6H, CH₃, CH₂S, CH₂), 2.54 (m, 1H,CH₂S), 2.97-3.10 (m, 2H, CH₂), 3.50-3.90 (m, 3H, NH, CH₂N), 5.0-5.10 (m,1H, CH), 5.24 (s, 1H, CH), 5.98-6.11 (m, 1H, NH), 7.25-7.89 (m, 14H,CH(Ar)); M⁺(ESI⁺): 523.71; M⁻(ESI⁻): 522.05.

Alternatively, thiazolidine intermediates of general structure (XXXI) or(XXXII), e.g.,N-[3-amino-1-phenylpropyl]-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(Intermediate 9, 50 mgs, 1.0 eq, 0.0 mmol), were dissolved in 10 ml DCMin presence of 30 μl of triethylamine at 0° C. Methane sulfonylchloride(10 μl, 1.1 eq, 0.11 mol) was introduced slowly and reaction mixture wasstirred at 0° C. for 30 minutes. It was then hydrolyzed with aqueoussodium carbonate (10%) and the compound extracted with DCM. The organicphase was dried with magnesium sulfate, and concentrated in vacuo togive a crude compound, which was purified by flash chromatography usingcyclohexane/ethyl-acetate (1/1) as eluent, to obtain the desiredcompounds of general structure (XXXIII), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-{3-[(methylsulfonyl)amino]-1-phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,was obtained as a white gum in 95% yield and 99.6% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.80-2.10 (m, 3H, CH₂S, CH₂), 2.88 (s, 3H,CH₃), 3.0-3.50 (m, 3H, CH₂S, CH₂), 3.70-3.85 (m, 2H, CH₂N), 4.45 (m, 1H,NH), 5.13-5.21 (m, 1H, CH), 5.35 (s, 1H, CH), 6.86-6.94 (m, 1H, NH),7.35-8.10 (m, 14H, CH(Ar)); M⁺(ESI⁺): 560.21;

M⁻(ESI⁻): 558.47.

Example 49 General protocols for the solution-phase synthesis of1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of general formula (XXVII):e.g.3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-phenoxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Thiazolidine intermediates of general structure (XXVI), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-(3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(1.0 g, 1.0 eq, 2.07 mmol) was dissolved in 20 ml dry THF undernitrogen. Phenol (252 mg, 1.5 eq, 2.69 mmol), diethylazodicarboxylate(470 mg, 1.5 eq, 2.69 mmol) and triphenyl phosphine polymer bound (1.0g, 1.5 eq, 2.70 mmol) were then added and the reaction mixture wasshaken for 12 hours at RT. Triphenyl phosphine resin was filtered offand the THF solution evaporated in vacuo. The residue was taken up inDCM and washed twice with saturated sodium carbonate solution and thenwater. The organic layer was dried with magnesium sulfate andconcentrated in vacuo to give a crude product which was purified onsilica gel using cyclohexane/ethyl acetate(8/2) as eluent, affording thedesired products of general structure (XXVII), e.g.,3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[3-phenoxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamideas a white oil in 40% yield and 95.5% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.22-2.40 (m, 2H, CH₂), 2.41-2.50 (m, 1H,CH₂S), 2.78-2.81 (m, 1H, CH₂S), 3.56-3.93 (m, 4H, CH₂N, CH₂O), 5.21 (m,1H, CH), 5.31 (s, 1H, CH), 6.79-6.92 (m, 4H, CH(Ar) and NH), 7.20-7.85(m, 16H, CH(Ar)); M⁺(ESI⁺): 559.39; M⁻(ESI⁻): 557.61.

Example 503-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(2-chloropyridin-4-yl)(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 1-(2-chloropyridin-4-yl)-1-phenylmethanamine(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.58 (m, 1H), 2.93 (m, 1H), 3.77 (m, 2H), 5.28(s, 0.5H), 5.31 (s, 0.5H), 6.07 (m, 1H), 7.13 (m, 4H), 7.37 (m, 7H),7.55 (m, 2H), 7.71 (m, 2H), 7.87 (m, 2H), 8.30 (m, 1H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 550;M⁻(ESI⁻): 548.

Example 513-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and [(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]amine(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.60 (m, 1H), 2.94 (m, 1H), 3.72 (m, 1H), 3.86(m, 1H), 5.31 (s, 0.5H), 5.36 (s, 0.5H), 6.21 (m, 1H), 7.36 (m, 1H),7.60 (m, 2H), 7.76 (m, 2H), 7.90 (m, 2H), 8.34 (m, 1H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 550;M⁻(ESI⁻): 548.

Example 523-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(6-hydroxypyridin-3-yl)(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 5-[amino(phenyl)methyl]pyridin-2-ol (Intermediate2), the title compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d6); 2.58 (m, 1H), 2.97 (m, 1H), 3.69 (m, 2H),5.41 (m, 1H), 5.65 (m, 1H), 6.18 (m, 1H), 7.20 (m, 10H), 7.60 (m, 2H),7.77 (m, 4H), 8.73 (m, 1H), 11.37 (br s, 1H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 532; M⁻(ESI⁻):530.

Example 533-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[[6-(dimethylamino)pyridin-3-yl](phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and 5-[amino(phenyl)methyl]-N,N-dimethylpyridin-2-amine(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.61 (m, 1H), 2.99 (m, 1H), 3.15 (s, 6H), 3.72(m, 1H), 3.90 (s, 1H), 5.36 (s, 0.5H), 5.39 (s, 0.5H), 6.10 (m, 1H),6.56 (m, 1H), 7.13 (m, 1H), 7.28 (m, 6H), 7.46 (m, 3H), 7.60 (m, 2H),7.73 (m, 2H), 7.91 (m, 2H), 8.02 (m, 0.5H), 8.09 (m, 0.5H). M⁺(ESI⁺):559; M⁻(ESI⁻): 558.

Example 543-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-{5-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]pyridin-2-yl}(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid(Intermediate 8) and[2-({6-[(R)-amino(phenyl)methyl]pyridin-3-yl}oxy)ethyl]dimethylamine(Intermediate 2), the title compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.63 (m, 7H), 2.99 (m, 3H), 3.71 (m, 1H), 4.02(m, 1H), 4.26 (br s, 2H), 5.48 (s, 0.5H), 5.49 (s, 0.5H), 6.02 (s,0.5H), 6.05 (s, 0.5H), 7.25 (m, 6H), 7.44 (m, 4H), 7.58 (m, 2H), 7.70(m, 2H), 7.93 (m, 2H), 8.33 (m, 2H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 603; M⁻(ESI⁻): 601.

Example 554-[(S)-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino](phenyl)methyl]-1-methylpiperidiniummethanesulfonate

Following the strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1, the titlecompound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d6); 1.40 (m, 2H), 1.92 (m, 2H), 2.29 (s, 3H),2.70 (m, 3H), 3.06 (m, 1H), 3.31 (m, 4H), 3.82 (m, 2H), 4.58 (m, 1H),5.50 (s, 1H), 7.34 (m, 7H), 7.56 (m, 2H), 7.90 (m, 4H), 8.57 (m, 1H),9.10 (m, 1H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 554; M⁻(ESI⁻): 552.

Example 56 benzeneacetic acid,alpha,alpha-dimethyl-4-[[2-[[[(R)-phenyl-2-pyridinylmethyl]amino]carbonyl]-3-thiazolidinyl]sulfonyl]-,methyl ester

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from 2-thiazolidinecarboxylic acid,3-[[4-(2-methoxy-1,1-dimethyl-2-oxoethyl)phenyl]sulfonyl]-(Intermediate8) and (R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methanamine (intermediate 1), the titlecompound was obtained in 91% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); δ 8.63 (s, 1H); 7.82-7.91 (m, 3H); 7.33-7.51(m, 9H); 6.2 (s, 1H); 5.65 (s, 1H); 3.88 (m, 2H); 3.66 (s, 3H); 3.10 (m,1H); 2.65 (m, 11H) 1.6 (s, 6H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 540.1; M⁻(ESI⁻): 538.0.

Example 57 Preparation of product Ia, e.g.({[3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)(phenyl)aceticacid

Intermediate VIII (Scheme 3), e.g.,3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxylic acid (1.747 g, 5mmol) was dissolved in DCM (20 mL). The resulting solution was cooleddown to −10° C. and oxalyl chloride (0.645 mL, 7.5 mmol) was addedslowly. DMF (0.1 mL) was added carefully. The reaction mixture wasallowed to warm to RT over 1 h and stirred an additional hour at RT. Asthe reaction was complete, the solvents were evaporated. Toluene wasadded and evaporated to remove residual oxalyl chloride. This processwas repeated twice, affording intermediate XXX, e.g.,3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carbonyl chloride as ayellow solid (1.839 g, quantitative yield). α-Aminophenylacetic acid(831 mg, 5.5 mmol) was dissolved in water (20 mL). TEA (2.77 mL, 20mmol) was added carefully. THF (25 mL) was added to reaction mixture.The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Acid chloride previouslyprepared XXX, e.g. 3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carbonylchloride dissolved in THF (25 mL) was added dropwise. The reactionmixture was stirred 15 min at 0° C. and overnight at RT. Solvents wereconcentrated and the resulting aqueous fraction was acidified with HCl5N and extracted with 3 portions of EtOAc. Combined organic phases weredried over MgSO₄, filtrated and evaporated. The crude product wasrecrystallized in acetone/Et2O mixture, affording carboxylic acid Ia,e.g.,({[3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)(phenyl)aceticacid in 97% purity by HPLC (943 mg, 39% yield).

¹HNMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d6); 2.68 (m, 1H), 3.08 (m, 1H), 3.84 (m, 2H), 5.30(m, 1H), 5.76 (s, 0.5H), 5.82 (s, 0.5H), 7.44 (m, 8H), 7.78 (m, 2H),7.93 (m, 4H), 8.91 (m, 1H), 13.10 (br s, 1H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 483; M⁻(ESI⁻):481.

Example 58 Preparation of product Ib, e.g.N-(2-amino-2-oxo-1-phenylethyl)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Compound Ia, e.g.,({[3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-(phenyl)aceticacid (500 mg, 1.04 mmol) was dissolved in THF (10 mL). Ammonia indioxane (0.5N, 3.11 mL, 1.55 mmol) was added followed by HOBt (210 mg,1.55 mmol) and DMAP (6 mg, 0.05 mmol). EDC.HCl (298 mg, 1.55 mmol) wasfinally added. The mixture was stirred for 5 hours at RT. As thereaction was complete, it was diluted with EtOAc, washed with 5% citricacid, NH₄Cl sat, NaHCO₃ sat, brine and dried over MgSO₄. Afterfiltration and evaporation of the solvents, the resulting crude productwas purified by flash chromatography (Cyclohexane/EtOAc, gradient from1:1 to 0:1). Compound Ib, e.g.N-(2-amino-2-oxo-1-phenylethyl)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,was isolated in 90% purity by HPLC (349 mg, 80% yield).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d6); 2.64 (m, 1H), 3.04 (m, 1H), 3.78 (m, 2H),5.34 (m, 1H), 5.84 (m, 1H), 7.29 (m, 4H), 7.47 (m, 4H), 7.76 (m, 2H),7.90 (m, 4H), 8.77 (m, 1H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 482; M⁻(ESI⁻): 480.

Example 59 Preparation of product Ic, e.g.3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[cyano(phenyl)-methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

To a stirred solution of compound 1b, e.g.,N-(2-amino-2-oxo-1-phenylethyl)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(385 mg, 0.8 mmol) in DMF (1 mL) at RT was added cyanuric chloride (74mg, 0.4 mmol) in one portion. After one night, the reaction was done.Water (3 mL) was added and a precipitate was formed. The aqueous phasewas extracted with two portions of EtOAc (5 mL). Combined organic phaseswere washed with 5% aqueous sodium bicarbonate, with water, dried overMgSO₄ and concentrated under reduced pressure. A light yellow solid wasisolated and was purified by flash chromatography (Cyclohexane/EtOAcgradient form 8:2 to 1:1), affording product Ic, e.g.,3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[cyano(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(257 mg, 69% yield) in 100% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.61 (m, 1H), 2.99 (m, 1H), 3.72 (m, 2H), 5.35(s, 0.5H), 5.41 (s, 0.5H), 6.06 (m, 0.5H), 6.17 (m, 0.5H), 7.17 (m, 1H),7.47 (m, 8H), 7.61 (m, 2H), 7.77 (m, 2H), 7.91 (m, 2H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 464;M⁻(ESI⁻): 462.

Example 60 Preparation of product I, e.g.3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[[5-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl](phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Triethylamine (92 μl, 0.66 mmol) was slowly added to a suspension ofproduct Ic, e.g.,3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[cyano(phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide,and hydroxylamine.hydrochloride (46 mg, 0.66 mmol) in ethanol (5 mL),under stirring. The reaction mixture was heated under reflux for 16 h,and then cooled to RT. The solvents were removed and the resulting solidwas suspended in water and extracted with three portions of EtOAc.Combined organic phases were dried over MgSO₄, filtrated and evaporated,affording intermediate Id, e.g.,N-[(1R,2Z)-2-amino-2-(hydroxyimino)-1-phenylethyl]-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(272 mg, quantitative yield) which was directly used in the next step.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 2.35 (br s, 2H), 2.55 (m, 2H), 3.00 (m, 1H),3.60-3.93 (m, 2H), 5.30 (s, 0.5H), 5.40 (s, 0.5H),), 5.64 (m, 1H)7.05-8.17 (m, 14H, H arom.). M⁺(ESI⁺): 497. M⁻(ESI⁻): 495.

Carboxylic acid, e.g., 3-tert-butoxypropionic acid (35 mg, 0.24 mmol),was dissolved in THF (2 mL). The resulting solution was cooled down to−15° C. NMM (84 μL, 0.76 mmol), followed by isobutyl chloroformate (33μL, 0.25 mmol), were added. The mixture was stirred at −15° C. for 30min. Intermediate Id, e.g.N-[(1R,2Z)-2-amino-2-(hydroxyimino)-1-phenylethyl]-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(108 mg, 0.22 mmol) in THF (2 mL) was added dropwise. The mixture wasstirred overnight, letting the temperature increasing up to RT. Solventswere evaporated. The resulting oil was dissolved in AcOEt, and washedwith sat NH₄Cl and sat NaHCO₃. Aqueous phases were extracted with twoportions of AcOEt. Combined organic phases were dried over MgSO₄,filtrated and evaporated, affording intermediate Id′, e.g.3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(2E)-2-[(3-tert-butoxypropanoyl)amino]-2-(hydroxyimino)-1-phenylethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(118 mg, 86% yield), which was directly used in the next step.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 625. M⁻(ESI⁻): 623.

Intermediate Id′, e.g.,3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(2E)-2-[(3-tert-butoxypropanoyl)amino]-2-(hydroxyimino)-1-phenylethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(118 mg, 0.19 mmol), was suspended in dry toluene. Pyridine (46 μL, 0.56mmol) was added. The mixture was stirred under reflux. After 7 hours thereaction was complete and the solvents were evaporated.

The crude residue was dissolved in EtOAc, and washed with two portionsof brine. Combined aqueous phases were extracted with two portions ofEtOAc. Combined organic phases were dried over MgSO₄, filtrated andevaporated. The crude product was dissolved in DCM (2.5 mL) and TFA (0.5mL) was added at 0° C. The mixture was stirred 15 min at 0° C. thenovernight at RT. Solvents were evaporated. The crude oil was stirred 5hours in MeOH, in order to hydrolyze the trifluoroacetic ester formed.After evaporation of the solvents, the desired product was purified byflash chromatography (Cylclohexane/EtoAc, gradient from 8:2 to 0:1),affording product 1, e.g.3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[[5-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl](phenyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(25 mg, 24% yield over three steps) in 100% purity by HPLC.

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); 1.85 (br s, 1H), 2.62 (m, 1H), 3.07 (m, 3H),3.75 (m, 1H), 4.00 (m, 3H), 5.38 (s, 0.5H), 5.44 (s, 0.5H), 6.37 (m,1H), 7.40 (m, 8H), 7.66 (m, 5H), 7.91 (m, 2H). M⁺(ESI⁺): 551; M⁻(ESI⁻):549.

Example 61 Preparation of product XXX. e.g. 2-thiazolidinecarboxamide,3-[[4-(2-fluoro-1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl]sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl-2-pyridinylmethyl]

The compound benzeneacetic acid,alpha,alpha-dimethyl-4-[[2-[[[(R)-phenyl-2-pyridinyl-methyl]amino]carbonyl]-3-thiazolidinyl]sulfonyl]-,methyl ester (Example X) (54 mg, 0.1 mmol) was dissolved in 3 mL ofanhydrous THF. The solution was cooled down to zero degree and LiBH4 wasadded (3 mg, 0.15 mmol, 1.5 eq). The reaction mixture was agitated for 2h. The reaction mixture was quenched by addition of H₂O. The organicsolvent was evaporated under reduced pressure, and the residueredissolved in EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with NaHCO₃ sat.,NaCl sat, dried over MgSO₄, and evaporated in vacuo to give2-thiazolidinecarboxamide,3-[[4-(2-hydroxy-1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl]sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl-2-pyridinylmethyl]—asa colorless oil (44 mg, yield: 86%).

¹H NMR (300 MHz, CDCl₃); δ 8.07 (m, 2H); 7.82-7.97 (m, 3H); 7.28-7.58(m, 9H); 6.26 (s, 1H); 3.86 (m, 2H); 3.36 (d, 2H); 3.635 (m, 1H); 2.71(m, 1H); 1.36 (s, 1H) M⁺(ESI⁺): 512.4. M⁻(ESI⁻): 510.3.

The compound 2-thiazolidinecarboxamide,3-[[4-(2-hydroxy-1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl]sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl-2-pyridinylmethyl]-(43mg, 0.08 mmol) was dissolved in 2 mL anhydrous DCM. The solution wascooled down to −78° C., and DAST (0.02 mL, 0.17 mmol, 2 eq) was added.The reaction mixture was stirred for 24 h at −78° C. and warmed to roomtemperature. The reaction was quenched by addition of NaHCO₃ sat. andagitated for 1 h. The product was extracted with DCM (50 mL). Theorganic layer was dried over MgSO₄ and evaporated. The residue waspurified by with EtOAc/cHex, 40:60) to give compound2-thiazolidinecarboxamide,3-[[4-(2-fluoro-1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl]sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl-2-pyridinylmethyl]—asan orange oil (14.8 mg, yield: 36%, 98.1 HPLC purity).

¹H-RMN(CH₂Cl₂) δ 8.58 (m, 2H); 7.83 (t, Jt=8.29, 2H); 7.65 (m, 1H);7.19-7.40 (m, 9H); 6.10 (s, 1H); 5.46 (s, 1H); 3.95-4.06 (m, 1H);3.65-3.78 (m, 1H); 2.92-2.99 (m, 3H); 2.55-2.64 (m, 1H); 1.25-1.37 (m,6H). ¹⁹F-RMN(CH₂Cl₂) δ-138.6. M⁺(ESI⁺): 514.2; M⁻(ESI⁻): 512.2

Example 62(2S)-3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]amino}-carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate(Intermediate 6) and [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride, the titlecompound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 516; M⁻(ESI⁻): 514.

Example 63(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N—[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(R)-phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]amino}-carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate(Intermediate 6) and 2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl chloride, the titlecompound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 534.6; M⁻(ESI⁻): 532.9.

Example 64(2S)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting from tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate(Intermediate 6) and [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride, the titlecompound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 501.6; M⁻(ESI⁻): 499.2.

Example 653-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N—[1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate(intermediate 6) and [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride, the titlecompound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 519.9; M⁻(ESI⁻): 517.8

Example 66(2S)—N-[(1S)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate(Intermediate 6) and 2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl chloride, the titlecompound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 537.9; M⁻(ESI⁻): 535.9.

Example 67(2S)-3-[(2′-fluoro-1,1′-biphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate(Intermediate 6) and [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride, the titlecompound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 501.9; M⁻(ESI⁻): 499.5.

Example 68 General protocols for the solution-phase synthesis of1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide derivatives of general formula (I): e.g.,(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)propylL-valinate,(3S)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]propylL-valinate,(3S)-3-[({(2S)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}amino)-3-phenylpropylL-valinate,(3S)-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]-3-phenylpropylL-valinate.

(2S)—N-[(1S)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(2.48 g, 4.62 mmol) was dissolved in 40 mL of DMF:DCM (1:1) and DMAP(846 mg, 6.93 mmol) was added. To this solution was added a 5-minpre-incubated solution of HOBt (937 mg, 6.93 mmol), EDC (1.35 g, 6.93mmol) and Boc-L-valine (1.5 g, 6.93 mmol). The reaction mixture wasagitated for 16 h at room temperature. The reaction mixture was dilutedwith DCM (200 mL) and washed with citric acid 5%, NH₄Cl sat, NaHCO₃ satand brine. The organic layer was dried over MgSO₄ and evaporated. Theresidue was purified by FC 10:90 to 50:50 (EtOAc:cyclohexane) to givethe desired product(3S)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]propylN-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-L-valinate a white solid (3.04 g, 89.4%).

Compound(3S)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]propylN-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-L-valinate (3.04 g, 4.13 mmol) was dissolved inDCM (33 mL) at 0 degree and 66 mL of 4M HCl in dioxane was added. Thereaction was stirred at 0 degree for 1 h and at r.t. for 3 h. Thesolvent was evaporated and the residue redissolved in DCM and washedwith 10% NaHCO₃ and brine. The organic layer was dried over MgSO₄ andevaporated to give a white foam. The foam was redissolved in THF and 1eq of methanesulfonic acid (345 mg) was added, the precipitate wasfiltered and dried to give the desired product(3S)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]propylL-valinate as a white solid (2.53 g, 83.7% yield).

M⁺(ESI⁺): 636.7; M⁻(ESI⁻): 634.3.

Example 69(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}-amino)-3-(2,6-difluorophenyl)propylL-valinate

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 68,starting from3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(Example 65), the title compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 618.9; M⁻(ESI⁻): 616.5.

Example 70(3S)-3-({[(2S)-3-(biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl]carbonyl}-amino)-3-phenylpropylL-valinate

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 68,starting from(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(Example 1), the title compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 582.9; M⁻(ESI⁻): 581.3.

Example 71(3S-3-[({(2S)-3-[(2′-fluorobiphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidin-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]-3-phenylpropylL-valinate

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 68,starting from(2S)-3-[(2′-fluoro-1,1′-biphenyl-4-yl)sulfonyl]-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide(Example 67), the title compound was obtained in 99% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 600.8; M⁻(ESI⁻): 598.6.

Example 72(2S)-3-(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-(2,4-difluoro-phenyl)propyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide

Following the general strategies and protocols outlined in Example 1,starting tert-butyl(2S)-2-({[(1S)-1-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]amino}carbonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-3-carboxylate(Intermediate 6) and [1,1′-biphenyl]-4-sulfonyl chloride, the titlecompound was obtained in 98% purity by HPLC.

M⁺(ESI⁺): 519.6; M⁻(ESI⁻): 517.6.

Example 73 Preparation of a Pharmaceutical Formulation Formulation1—Tablets

A 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound of formula (II) is admixed asa dry powder with a dry gelatin binder in an approximate 1:2 weightration. A minor amount of magnesium stearate is added as a lubricant.The mixture is formed into 240-270 mg tablets (80-90 mg of active1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound per tablet) in a tablet press.

Formulation 2—Capsules

A 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound of formula (II) is admixed asa dry powder with a starch diluent in an approximate 1:1 weight ratio.The mixture is filled into 250 mg capsules (125 mg of active1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound per capsule).

Formulation 3—Liquid

A 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound of formula (II), sucrose andxanthan gum are blended, passed through a No. 10 mesh U.S. sieve, andthen mixed with a previously prepared solution of microcrystallinecellulose and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (11:89) in water. Sodiumbenzoate, flavor, and color are diluted with water and added withstirring. Sufficient water is then added.

Formulation 4—Tablets

A 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound of formula (II) is admixed asa dry powder with a dry gelatin binder in an approximate 1:2 weightratio. A minor amount of magnesium stearate is added as a lubricant. Themixture is formed into 450-900 mg tablets (150-300 mg of active1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound) in a tablet press.

Formulation 5—Injection

A 1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide compound of formula (II) is dissolvedin a buffered sterile saline injectable aqueous medium to provide asatisfactory concentration.

Example 51 Biological Assays

The compounds of formula (II), were be subjected to the following invitro and in vivo biological assays:

-   1) In vitro competition binding assay on human Prostaglandin F_(2α)    receptor using a Scintillating Proximity Assay (SPA)

This assay allows to determine the binding affinity of the testcompounds of formula (I) for the human Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor:

a) Preparation of Prostaglandin F_(2α) Receptor:

Human Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor (full-length cDNA) was subclonedinto the pCEP4 (Invitrogen) vector and transfected together with thehygromycin resistance gene into HEK 293 EBNA cells by Calcium-phosphateco-precipitation method. Antibiotic resistant cells were grown underconstant selection pressure in DMEM/F-12 medium supplemented with 2%fetal calf serum, 4 mM L-Glutamine and 8 ml/lInsulin-Transferrin-Selenium-mix (all Invitrogen) and 300 μg/mlhygromycin at 37° C. in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO₂ in air. At 48h before harvesting, receptor expression was enhanced by adding 5 mM ofNa-butyrate. Cells were washed twice with phosphate buffer saline,harvested and pelleted by centrifugation.

Cell pellet was lysed by Dounce homogenisation in 250 mM sucrose, 25 mMTris-HCl pH 7.5, 10 mM MgCl₂, 1 mM EDTA containing proteases inhibitorsaccording to the manufacturer (Boehringer Mannheim) at 4° C. The lysatewas centrifuged at 1000 g, 4° C. for 10 min and the supernatant wascentrifuged at 160000 g, 4° C. for 60 min. The membranes pellets wereresuspended in binding buffer (10 mM MES pH 6.2, 10 mM MgCl₂, 1 mM EDTAcontaining proteases inhibitors), frozen in dry ice ethanol and storedat −80° C.

b) Determination of the Binding Affinity Values for Test Compounds:

In vitro competition binding with Scintillation proximity assay (SPA)was performed in Corning NBS 96 wells plates. Briefly, 100 μl of bindingbuffer containing 15 to 30 μg of purified membranes, 4 mg/ml ofwheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) SPA beads and 1 to 2 nM of ³H PGF2-alpha(determined by Scatchard analysis) in 1% DMSO was incubated for 2 hoursat room temperature. Non-specific binding was determined in the presenceof 1 μM of non-radioactive Prostaglandin F_(2α). The concentrations ofcompounds (antagonist) used to compete with the radioactive ligand(agonist) were 10 μM, 3 μM, 1 μM, 300 nM, 100 nM, 30 nM, 10 nM, 1 nM,100 pM, 10 pM. The radioactivity was counted on a Microbeta platecounter and the binding data were analysed using the iterative,non-linear, curve-fitting program, “Prism” (GraphPad Software, Inc).

c) Results—Discussion:

The tested compounds according to formula (II) induced an inhibition(illustrated by K_(i) values) of the binding of Prostaglandin F_(2α) toits receptor of less than 10 μM. The binding affinity of preferredcompounds of formula (II) to human Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor isillustrated in the below Table 1 by means of the correspondinginhibition constants K_(i). From the values shown in Table 1, it can beconcluded that said test compounds according to formula (II) do show asignificant binding to the Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor.

TABLE 1 Binding affinities of test compounds of general formula (II) tohuman Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor, as determined in the scintillationproximity competition binding assay (against Prostaglandin F_(2α) asradioligand). Binding affinity for human Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptorStructure IUPAC Name K_(i) (μM)

(2S)-N-{(1S)-3- [benzyl(methyl)amino]-1-phenyl]propyl}-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 0.020

(2S)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1- phenylpropyl]-3-[(4-tert-pentylphenyl)sulfonyl]-1,3- thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 0.120

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine- 2-carboxamide 0.055

3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N- [1-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2- carboxamide 0.050

3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N- [1-phenyl-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 0.170

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2- carboxamide 0.065

(2S)-2-[({3-[(5-chloro-3-methyl-1- benzothien-2-yl)sulfonyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-yl}carbonyl)amino]- 3-phenylpropanoic acid 0.330

3-{[5-(3-isoxazolyl)-2- thienyl]sulfonyl}-N-{4-[({[(2-phenylethyl)amino]carbonyl} amino)methyl]benzyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 1.10

3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-ylsulfonyl)-N- [1-(2-furyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 0.620

N-(3-{[2- (acetylamino)ethyl]amino}-1-phenylpropyl)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 1.15

-   2) In vitro functional assay 1: Inhibition of Prostaglandin F_(2α)    induced IP3 (Inositol Triphosphate) Synthesis in HEK/EBNA-cells    expressing the Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor

The interaction of Prostaglandin F_(2α) with its receptor leads to IP3synthesis, a second messenger for Ca²⁺ release from sarcoplasmaticreticulum, involved in the process triggering uterine contractions. Thepresent assay described hereinafter can be used to show the inhibitionof the Prostaglandin F_(2α)/Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor mediated IP3synthesis by test compounds of formula (II).

a) Materials:

293-EBNA cells and pCEP4 vector were purchased from Invitrogen; FetalBovine Serum from Cansera; Hygromycin B from Roche MolecularBiochemicals; DMEM-F12 medium, L-Glutamine from Life Technologies Inc.;[³H] Inositol from Perkin Elmer Life Sciences; Prostaglandin F_(2α)(PGF_(2α)) from Sigma, AG1-X8 chromatography columns from BioRad, 96well black/white plates from Corning Inc.

b) Constructs:

The cDNAs of the human Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor (hFP) and of therat Prostaglandin F_(2α), receptor (rFP) receptors were subcloned intothe expression vector pCEP4 to generate pCEP4hFPuno and pCEP4rFPrespectively.

c) Cell culture and transfection:293-EBNA cells were grown in DMEM-F12 medium supplemented with 2% fetalbovine serum and 4 mM L-glutamine. Cells were transfected by the calciumphosphate precipitation method with the appropriate plasmid and selectedfor hygromycinB resistance. The surviving colonies were assayed fortheir ability to retain specific [³H] PGF_(2α) binding. Selected cloneswere maintained in DMEM-F12 medium supplemented with 4 mM L-glutamine,300 μg/ml hygromycinB and 2% fetal bovine serum (10% for cellsexpressing rFP).

d) Inositol Phosphate Measurements:

Cells were detached with PBS/EDTA, washed with inositol-free DMEM-F12medium and seeded at 80000 cells/well in a Poly-L-Lysine precoated 12well plate. Cells were labelled with myo-[³H] Inositol at 4 μCi/ml ininositol-free DMEM-F12 supplemented with 1% fetal bovine serum, 4 mML-glutamine and 300 μg/ml hygromycinB. After 24 hours (rFP expressingcells) or 40 hours (hFP expressing cells), the medium was removed andcells were pre-incubated for 10 min in assay buffer (DMEM-F12 withoutInositol, 20 mM Hepes, 0.1% BSA) containing 20 mM LiCl at 37° C. Foragonist dose response, cells were then stimulated for 1 hour at roomtemperature with increasing concentration of PGF_(2α), in assay buffer.For IC₅₀ determination of the compounds, cells were incubated withincreasing concentrations of test compounds for 10 min at roomtemperature prior to addition of 30 nM PGF_(2α) (about 2× the EC₅₀) andfurther incubation for 1 hour. For agonist activity determination of thetest compounds themselves, the test compounds were added to the cells at10 μM and 1 μM for 1 hour at room temperature.

In the course of the three above mentioned experiments, the reaction wasstopped by addition of 1 ml of stop solution (2.4% perchloric acid) for10 min. 800 μl were then transferred to 400 μl of neutralizing solution(0.72N KOH, 0.6 M KHCO₃), vortexed, and sedimented for at least 2 hoursat 4° C. After centrifugation of 15 min. at 2500 g, 1 ml of thesupernatant was loaded on a chromatography column, followed by twowashes with 10 ml of water. The IP3 to be quantified were eluted with 3ml elution buffer (1M ammonium formate, 0.1 M formic acid) andradioactivity was counted on a Beckman LS6000TA scintillation counter tomeasure the amount of phosphorylated [³H] inositol.

e) Results and Discussion:

The activities of the thiazolidine compounds of formula (II) wereassessed using the above described in vitro biological assay.Representative values for some example compounds are given in Table 2below. The values refer to the capacity of the example compoundsaccording to formula (II) to effectively antagonize ProstaglandinF_(2α)-induced IP3-synthesis mediated by the Prostaglandin F_(2α)receptor. From the values shown in Table 2, it can be derived that saidexample test compounds according to formula (II) do exhibit asignificant activity as Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor antagonists, asillustrated by IC₅₀ values of generally less than 2 μM.

TABLE 2 Inhibition of IP3 synthesis in HEK EBNA cells expressing thehuman Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor, by thiazolidine antagonists ofgeneral formula (II). Inhibition of Prostaglandin F_(2α)-inducedIP3-synthesis, Structure IUPAC-Name IC₅₀ (μM)

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[(2-hydroxyethyl)(methyl)amino]-1- phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 0.225

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3-thiazolidine- 2-carboxamide 0.015

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2- carboxamide 0.185

-   3) In vitro functional assay 2: Inhibition of Prostaglandin F_(2α)    induced Ca²′-mobilization in HEK/EBNA-cells expressing the    Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor, as measured by FLIPR® (Fluorimetric    Imaging Plate Reader).

a) Calcium Mobilization Measurements by FLIPR (Fluorometric ImagingPlate Reader)

HEK EBNA cells were seeded at 60000 cells/well in a Poly-L-Lysineprecoated black/white bottom 96 well plate. 24 hours later cells wereloaded with 4.5 nM Fluo-4 in DMEM-F12 without fetal calf serum for 1-2hours at 37° C. For Prostaglandin F_(2α) dose response or agonistactivity measurement of compounds—after a wash with FLIPR buffer (10 mMHepes, 145 mM NaCl, 5 mM KCl, 1 mM MgCl₂, 10 mM glucose, pH 7.4)—cellswere stimulated with increasing concentration of Prostaglandin F_(2α) ortest compounds of formula (II). Calcium mobilization was then measuredon the FLIPR for 4 min. For IC₅₀ determination of the molecules,increasing concentrations of test compounds were added to the cells 30min prior to the wash step. After the wash with FLIPR buffer, increasingconcentrations of test compounds were added to the cells in FLIPR bufferand calcium mobilization was measured for 1 min. Then the cells werestimulated with a concentration of 2 times the EC₅₀ of ProstaglandinF_(2α) and calcium mobilization was measured for 4 min.

b) Results and Discussion:

The activities of the thiazolidine derivatives according to formula (II)were assessed using the above described in vitro biological assay.Representative values for some example compounds are given in Table 3below. The values refer to the capacity of the example compoundsaccording to formula (II) to effectively antagonize ProstaglandinF_(2α)-induced intracellular Ca²⁺-mobilization mediated by theProstaglandin F_(2α)-receptor. From the IC₅₀-values shown in Table 3 itcan be derived that said example test compounds according to formula(II) do exhibit a significant activity as Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptorantagonists, as illustrated by IC₅₀ values of generally less than 2 μM.

TABLE 3 Inhibition of Ca²⁺-mobilization in HEK EBNA cells expressing thehuman Prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor, by thiazolidine antagonists ofgeneral formula (II). Inhibition of Prostaglandin F_(2α) inducedCa²⁺-mobilization, Structure IUPAC Name IC₅₀ (μM)

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-{(1S)-3-[(2-hydroxyethyl)(methyl)amino]-1- phenylpropyl}-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 0.202

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-[(R)-phenyl(2-pyridinyl)methyl]-1,3- thiazolidine-2-carboxamide 0.020

(2S)-3-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4- ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2- carboxamide 0.048

-   4) In vivo assay: Reduction of uterine contractile activity in rats    a) PGF_(2α) or fluprostenol-induced uterine contractions in    non-pregnant rats

(i) Preparation of the Experiment:

Non-pregnant Sprague Dawley female rats (Charles River, Calco, Italy)weighing 200-300 g were used. They received an i.p. injection of 250μg/kg diethylstilbestrol (DES) 18 and 24 hours before the experiment. Onthe day of the experiment, they were anaesthetized with urethane (1.05g/kg, i.p.) and placed on a homeothermic operating table. The tracheawas then isolated and cannulated with a suitable polyethylene (PE)tubing. A midline incision at the hypogastrium level was made, oneuterine horn exposed and its tubal end closed (near the ovary) by aligature with surgical silk. About 3 cm posteriorly to the first tie,the uterine horn wall was incited (close to the uterus body) and a PE240tubing was inserted into the lumen and secured with surgical silk. Afterfilling the internal cavity with 0.2 ml of sterile physiological salinesolution, the catheter was connected to an amplifying/recording system(MacLab, ADInstruments Pty Ltd, Castle Hill, Australia) via a P23IDGould Statham pressure transducer. One jugular vein was then isolatedand cannulated with a PE60 catheter connected to a butterfly needle forthe intravenous administration of Prostaglandin F_(2α) (Sigma Chem. co.,St. Louis, Mo., USA) and (±)fluprostenol (Cayman Chemicals, Ann Arbor,Mich., USA) or test compounds. For the oral administration, theesophagus was cannulated with a PE90 catheter.

For obtaining information regarding the test compound plasma levels, 2,30, 90 and 210 minutes after the intravenous administration or 30, 60,120 and 210 minutes after the oral administration, 0.5-ml blood sampleswere withdrawn from the carotid artery previously cannulated with a PE60catheter. Plasma was then obtained by standard laboratory procedure andthe resulting samples were stored at −20° C. for successivedeterminations.

After a suitable stabilization period, repeated administrations ofProstaglandin F_(2α) (by a 10-min intravenous infusion) or fluprostenol(by intravenous bolus) were performed every 35 minutes for 9 timestotally. The contractile response obtained from the third ProstaglandinF_(2α) or fluprostenol injection was set as 100%. Five minutes beforethe fourth injection of Prostaglandin F_(2α) and (±) fluprostenol, thetest compound of formula (II) (i.e. a FP antagonist) was injectedintravenously as a 5-min infusion.

(ii) Results and Discussion:

As each administration of Prostaglandin F_(2α) or fluprostenol induced atrain of uterine contractions, the resulting contractile response wasquantified by measuring the area under the curve (AUC) of the changes inintraluminal uterine pressure (by Chart V4.04 for Windows software,PowerLab ADInstruments, Castle Hill, Australia) over the first 15minutes of the 35-min post-injection period (ProstaglandinF_(2α)-induced uterine contractions) or the whole 35-min (forfluprostenol). Percent variations of AUCs determined after eachProstaglandin F_(2α) or fluprostenol injection were calculated incomparison to the AUC obtained with the third injection (set as 100%) ofProstaglandin F_(2α) or fluprostenol. The effect of the test compoundwas expressed at each time-point as the percent inhibition of the abovevariation values after the administration of each dose of test compoundcompared to that obtained at the corresponding time-point in the groupreceiving the vehicle alone. From the inhibition values obtained foreach dose-group at the peak effect, a dose-response curve was plottedand, when possible, the relative ED₅₀ value calculated (by S-Plus 2000v.4.6 statistical software, Mathsoft, Inc. Seattle, Wash., USA).

Compound(2S)-3-[(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidefor instance for instance, 40 minutes after administration by i.v.route, caused inhibition of uterine contractions of 26%, at a cumulativedose of 30 mg/kg.

b) Spontaneous Uterine Contractions in Late-Term Pregnant Rats: (i)Preparation of the Experiment:

Late-term pregnant (19-21 days of gestation) Sprague Dawley female rats(Charles River, Calco, Italy) weighing 350-400 g were anesthetized withurethane (1.05 g/kg, i.p.) and placed on a homeothermic operating table.The trachea was isolated and cannulated with a suitable polyethylene(PE) tubing. A midline incision at the hypogastrium level was made, onepregnant uterine horn exposed and its tubal end closed (near the ovary)by a ligature with surgical silk. In the correspondence of the lastfoetus near the above-mentioned ovary, the uterine horn wall was incitedtaking care not to injure the adjacent placenta, and a PE240 tubing witha latex balloon (9 mm length when empty, capacity 0.1 ml; Radnoti,Monrovia, Calif., USA) on the top was inserted into the lumen andsecured with surgical silk. After filling the internal cavity of thelatex balloon with 0.1 ml of sterile physiological saline solution, thecatheter was connected to an amplifying/recording system (MacLab,ADInstruments Pty Ltd, Castle Hill, Australia) via a P23ID Gould Stathampressure transducer. One jugular vein was then isolated and cannulatedwith a PE60 catheter connected to a butterfly needle for the intravenousadministration of the vehicle or test compounds.

After a suitable stabilization period, vehicle or increasing doses ofthe test compound were administered by a 10-min intravenous infusion.Each dose administration was followed by a 30-min recovery period.

(ii) Results and Discussion:

The spontaneous contractile response of the uterus was quantified byevaluating the area under the curve (AUC) of the changes in theintra-luminal uterine pressure over time (by Chart V4.04 for Windowssoftware, PowerLab ADInstruments, Castle Hill, Australia). The effect ofthe test compound on the spontaneous uterine contraction was evaluatedas the percent variation of the AUC calculated in a 10-min intervalfollowing the administration of each dose of test compound as comparedto the AUC in a 10-min interval before the administration of the firstdose of test compound (basal value). When possible, a dose-responsecurve (of peak effect) was plotted and the relative ED50 valuecalculated (by S-Plus 2000 v. 4.6 statistical software, Mathsoft, Inc.Seattle, Wash., USA).

Compound(2S)-3-[(1,1′-biphenyl-4-ylsulfonyl)-N-[(1S)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylpropyl]-1,3-thiazolidine-2-carboxamidefor instance, upon administration by i.v. route (infusion over 10minutes), caused inhibition of uterine contractions of >50%, at acumulative dose of 30 mg/kg—with a calculated ED₅₀ value) of 28 mg/kg or2.8 mg/kg/min, in the experiment outlined above.

1. A compound, geometrical isomers of said compound, optically active forms of said compound, enantiomers of said compound, diastereomers of said compound, racemate forms of said compound, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compound, wherein said compound is represented by formula II,

G is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, C₃-C₈-heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl and substituted C₃-C₈-heterocycloalkyl, wherein said cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups are optionally fused with a cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl group; R¹ is selected from the group consisting of aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, a 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl and a substituted 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, wherein said (hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups are optionally fused with a (hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl group; R² is selected from the group consisting of H, carboxy, acyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, C₁-C₅-alkyl amino, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy, C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, 3-8 membered heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl, substituted carboxy, substituted acyl, substituted alkoxycarbonyl, substituted aminocarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl amino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonylamino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, substituted 3-8 membered heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, and substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl; R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, and substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl; and n is an integer from 0 to 2; or R² and G optionally form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl ring, wherein when R¹, R², or R⁴ represent a substituted group 1 to 5 substituents may be present, which are selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, cyclo-alkyl, heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, amino, ammonium, acyl, acyloxy,-acylamino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, ureido, aryl, heteroaryl, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, alkoxy, sulfanyl, halogen, carboxy, trihalomethyl, cyano, hydroxy, mercapto, and nitro, wherein when G represents a substituted group 1 to 5 substituents may be present, which are selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, cyclo-alkyl, heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, amino, ammonium, acyl, acylamino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, ureido, aryl, heteroaryl, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, alkoxy, sulfanyl, halogen, carboxy, trihalomethyl, cyano, hydroxy, mercapto, and nitro, wherein when G, R¹, R², or R⁴ represent a substituted group from those selected above, the substitution could also comprise ring closure of neighbouring substituents; wherein said sulfonyl is of the formula —SO₂—X wherein X is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, aryl, heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl, halogen-substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl; said sulfinyl is of the formula —S(O)—Y wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, aryl, heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl, halogen-substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl; and said sulfanyl is of the formula —S-Z wherein Z is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, aryl, hetero-aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl.
 2. The compound, geometrical isomers of said compound, optically active forms of said compound, enantiomers of said compound, diastereomers of said compound, racemate forms of said compound, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compound according to claim 1, wherein G is an aryl group.
 3. A method of inhibiting a prostaglandin receptor comprising: administering a composition comprising the compound, geometrical isomers of said compound, optically active forms of said compound, enantiomers of said compound, diastereomers of said compound, racemate forms of said compound, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compound and pharmaceutically active derivatives thereof as claimed in claim 1 to a patient in need thereof.
 4. The method according to of claim 3, wherein said prostaglandin receptor is the prostaglandin F_(2α) receptor.
 5. A method of treating dysmenorrhea, preterm labor, premature birth or stopping labor prior to cesarean delivery comprising administering a composition comprising the compound, geometrical isomers of said compound, optically active forms of said compound, enantiomers of said compound, diastereomers of said compound, racemate forms of said compound, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compound and pharmaceutically active derivatives thereof as claimed in claim 1 to a patient in need thereof.
 6. A compound, geometrical isomers of said compound, optically active forms of said compound, enantiomers of said compound, diastereomers of said compound, racemate forms of said compound, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compound wherein said compound is represented by formula I,

G′ is selected from the group consisting of aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl and substituted 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, wherein said cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups are optionally fused with cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups; R¹ is selected from the group consisting of aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, a 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl and a substituted 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, wherein said (hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups are optionally fused with a (hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl group; R² is selected from the group consisting of H, carboxy, acyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, C₁-C₅-alkyl amino, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy, C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, 3-8 membered heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl, substituted carboxy, substituted acyl, substituted alkoxycarbonyl, substituted aminocarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy, substituted C₁-C₈-alkyl acylamino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl amino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonylamino, substituted C₁-C₈-alkyl sulfonyloxy, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, substituted 3-8 membered heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, and substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl; R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, and substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl; and n is an integer from 0 to 2, wherein when G′, R¹, R², or R⁴ represent a substituted group 1 to 5 substituents may be present, which are selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, cyclo-alkyl, heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, amino, ammonium, acyl, acyloxy, acylamino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, ureido, aryl, heteroaryl, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, alkoxy, sulfanyl, halogen, carboxy, trihalomethyl, cyano, hydroxy, mercapto, and nitro, alternatively the substitution could also comprise ring closure of neighbouring substituents; wherein said sulfonyl is of the formula —SO₂—X wherein X is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, aryl, heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl, halogen-substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl; said sulfinyl is of the formula —S(O)—Y wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, aryl, heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl, halogen-substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl; and said sulfanyl is of the formula —S-Z wherein Z is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, aryl, hetero-aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl.
 7. The compound, geometrical isomers of said compound, optically active forms of said compound, enantiomers of said compound, diastereomers of said compound, racemate forms of said compound, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compound according to claim 6 wherein R′ is selected from the group consisting of an aryl and a heteroaryl group optionally substituted with at least one moiety selected from the group consisting of aryl, heteroaryl, halogen, alkoxy, sulfanyl, straight and branched C₁-C₆-alkyl.
 8. A pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one compound according to claim 6 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, diluent or excipient thereof.
 9. A method of preparing the compound of formula (I) according to claim 6, comprising: deprotecting a first compound represented by formula V in the presence of a base and a second compound represented by formula VI to obtain the compound represented by formula I

wherein PG is a protecting group selected from Boc, Fmoc and Cbz.
 10. A method of preparing the compound represented by formula I according to claim 6, comprising: peptide coupling a first compound represented by formula VIII with a second compound represented by formula IV to obtain the compound represented by formula I.


11. A compound, geometrical isomers of said compound, optically active forms of said compound, enantiomers of said compound, diastereomers of said compound, racemate forms of said compound, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compound wherein said compound is represented by formula (Ia):

R¹ is selected from the group consisting of aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, a 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl and a substituted 3 to 8 membered heterocycloalkyl, wherein said (hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl groups are optionally fused with a (hetero)cycloalkyl or aryl or heteroaryl group; R² is selected from the group consisting of H, carboxy, acyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₈-alkyl acyloxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, C₁-C₅-alkyl amino, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy, C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, 3-8 membered heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl, substituted carboxy, substituted acyl, substituted alkoxycarbonyl, substituted aminocarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl amino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, substituted C₁-C₈-alkyl sulfonylamino, substituted C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, substituted 3-8 membered heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, and substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl; R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, and substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl; and n is an integer from 0 to 2, wherein when G′, R¹, R², or R⁴ represent a substituted group 1 to 5 substituents may be present, which are selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, cyclo-alkyl, heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, amino, ammonium, acyl, acyloxy, acylamino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, ureido, aryl, heteroaryl, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, alkoxy, sulfanyl, halogen, carboxy, trihalomethyl, cyano, hydroxy, mercapto, and nitro, alternatively the substitution could also comprise ring closure of neighbouring substituents; R³ is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl or heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₃-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₃-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl-aryl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl-heteroaryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl, carboxy, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, C₁-C₆-alkoxy, nitro, acylamino, ureido, sulfonylamino, sulfanyl, sulfonyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl, substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, substituted heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, substituted C₁-C₃-alkyl cycloalkyl, substituted C₁-C₃-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl-aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkenyl-heteroaryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, substituted C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl, substituted carboxy, substituted cyano, substituted C₁-C₆-alkoxy, substituted acylamino, substituted ureido, substituted sulfonylamino, substituted sulfanyl, and substituted sulfonyl; and m is an integer from 0 to 3, wherein when R³ represents a substituted group 1 to 5 substituents may be present, which are selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, cyclo-alkyl, heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, amino, ammonium, acyl, acyloxy, acylamino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonyl, ureido, aryl, heteroaryl, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, alkoxy, sulfanyl, halogen, carboxy, trihalomethyl, cyano, hydroxy, mercapto, and nitro, alternatively the substitution could also comprise ring closure of neighbouring substituents; wherein said sulfonyl is of the formula —SO₂—X wherein X is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, aryl, heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl, halogen-substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl; said sulfinyl is of the formula —S(O)—Y wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, aryl, heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl, halogen-substituted C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl; and said sulfanyl is of the formula —S-Z wherein Z is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, aryl, hetero-aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, and C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl.
 12. A method of preparing the compound of formula (Ia) according to claim 11, comprising: deprotecting a first compound represented by formula Va in the presence of a base and a second compound represented by formula VI to obtain the compound represented by formula Ia

wherein PG is a protecting group selected from Boc, Fmoc and Cbz.
 13. A method of preparing the compound represented by formula Ia according to claim 11, comprising: peptide coupling a first compound represented by formula VIII with a second compound represented by formula IVa to obtain the compound represented by formula Ia


14. A compound of the formula Va,

wherein PG is H, R² is selected from the group consisting of H, carboxy, acyl, alkoxycarbonyl, aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl carboxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxycarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl aminocarbonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl acyloxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl acylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl ureido, C₁-C₅-alkyl amino, C₁-C₅-alkyl alkoxy, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfanyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfinyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyl, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonylamino, C₁-C₅-alkyl sulfonyloxy, C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl, 3-8 membered heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl heteroaryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, and C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl; R³ is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, C₃-C₈-cycloalkyl or heterocycloalkyl, C₁-C₆-alkyl aryl, C₁-C₆-alkyl heteroaryl, C₁-C₃-alkyl cycloalkyl, C₁-C₃-alkyl heterocycloalkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl-aryl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl-heteroaryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl aryl, C₂-C₆-alkynyl heteroaryl, carboxy, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, C₁-C₆-alkoxy, nitro, acylamino, ureido, sulfonylamino, sulfanyl, and sulfonyl; and R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, and C₂-C₆-alkynyl; and m is an integer from 0 to 3, and n is an integer from 0 to
 2. 15. A compound of the formula VIII,

wherein R¹ is a 1,1′-biphenyl or a tert-butyl phenyl moiety R⁴ is selected from the group consisting of C₁-C₆-alkyl, C₂-C₆-alkenyl, and C₂-C₆-alkynyl; and n is an integer from 0 to
 2. 